Alumni
Christina Faltas
Degree: B.S. Biology (Class of 2016)
Current Position: PhD Student at New York Medical College
I was a former student in Dr. Coleman’s Lab and worked with Dr. Coleman for about one and a half years. I was interested in medicine prior to coming to college, but working in the lab changed my entire professional trajectory and led me on the path towards becoming a future scientist. Currently, I am working on obtaining my PhD at New York Medical College and hope to impact science just as much as it has impacted my life.
Alix M. Duarte Gomez
Degree: B.S. Biology (Class of 2016)
Current Position: Master student in the Columbia University School of Nursing.
I worked at Dr. Coleman’s laboratory for almost two years while I was working towards my B.S. in Biology. In her laboratory I forged my character and some of the most inspiring friendships. Working in cell biology research I became more observant, organized and accountable. I learned to troubleshoot for errors, think critically and the importance of teamwork. The experience gained at this lab lead me to do research at Columbia University Medical Center and now, working towards my Masters in Nursing degree, these values and working ethics are key to provide high quality care to my patients.
David Donatacci
Degree: B.S. Biology
Current Position: Cell Therapy Specialist (Immunotherapy) and Entrepreneur
Class of 2017
Hometown: Bogota NJ
The path of an individual's life can be completely changed with a single decision. That decision for myself was when I asked my former classmates Christina Faltas and Alix Duarte what they did in Dr. Coleman’s research lab. One thing led to the next and I ended up joining and learning an array of skills outside of a classroom lab setting. The most strengthening aspects of the lab were not when things went right, but actually when they went wrong (or not as hypothesised). It was in those moments that allowed me to mentally maneuver through difficult situations and assess a given situation in a high pressure environment with my team. It is what led me to work at a large biomedical company as an immunotherapy specialist alongside doctors and biomedical engineers on processes for various companies treating cancer patients. Alongside that, I am working on a startup app with a graphic designer and developer called toothdolist ™ where it tracks your oral hygiene and projects new healthier habits.
Michael Galarraga
While attending NJCU I worked as a researcher under the tutelage of Dr. Coleman for nearly 2 years. During my college carrier, I conducted research in projects involving cancer biology and neurotoxicity. Working as a researcher provided me with the opportunity to further my knowledge of the biology field and gain invaluable skills that will help pursue my PharmD. Currently I am employed as a Pharmacy Technician and enrolled in Rutgers University’s Pharmacy program, a goal that I would think impossible if it not have been for the tremendous growth and independence as well as the irreplaceable skills obtained during my time as a researcher.