Skip to Main Content
LSAMP • Biology • Mallory Wilson Center for Healthcare Education

Stella Lukusa '24

Stella Lukusa
LSAMP • Biology • Mallory Wilson Center for Healthcare Education

Stella Lukusa '24

  • Hometown: West Chester, OH
  • Class: 2024
  • Majors: Biology; Premedical Studies (co-major)
  • Minor: French
  • Other Activities:
    • Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP);
    • Minority Association of Pre-Health Students (MAPS);
    • Undergraduate Research Assistant: Dr. Konkolewicz’s Lab;
    • College of Arts and Science Dean Student’s Advisory Council (DSAC);
    • Black Leaders Coalition (BLC);
    • Sounds of ASPIRE Band-Office of ASPIRE
Begin Quote
The moment I stepped on Miami's campus, I knew that it was a place I could call home. Four years later, I realized I was right.
End Quote
Stella Lukusa, on Why Miami?

Why Miami?

The moment I stepped on Miami's campus, I knew that it was a place I could call home. Four years later, I realized I was right. Not only did Miami provide me with a competitive scholarship package, but I was accepted with open arms by all the faculty and staff I met my first few days of arriving on campus during my visit.

How did you choose your major?

For the longest, my dream was to go to medical school and become a Pediatrician. I always had a fascination for Biological Science in high school, so I decided to pursue that major and I've learned so much since. I am now headed down the graduate school route after analyzing my true interests during my time at Miami but am happy that I will finish my Biology degree in the spring. The thought process of choosing my minor was a bit more complex. I grew up in a French-speaking household, as I am Congolese, and was a fluent speaker for most of my life, but wanted to excel in my reading and writing skills.

Key Moment at Miami

Entering my second year, I knew that how well I performed in my Organic Chemistry course would be a test of my willingness to pursue my science education. It led me to gain a greater appreciation for science and what it takes to be a successful student and future employee in this field of study. My experience in this class heightened my interest in transitioning my focus toward research that would expand my knowledge of vaccine science. Early last April, I became a research assistant in Dr. Konkolewicz's lab which studies Protein-Polymer Bioconjugate interactions. Polymers like polyethylene glycol play a crucial role in both vaccine composition and equipment. The scientific advancements with these PEG-type polymers include their conjugations with proteins, which have contributed to pharmaceutical development. Pharmacology and making my mark in vaccine science is where I strive to make a difference post-bachelor's.

Other Notable Experience

Being the President of the Minority Association of Pre-Health Students has been nothing short of an honor and privilege. As a first-generation student, it's rewarding to lead a team whose goal is to provide resources to minority pre-health students looking to advance and challenge themselves academically. The Student National Medical Association has been amazing and my executive staff has been helpful and supportive in achieving our mission statement: "supporting current and future underrepresented minority medical students, addressing the needs of underserved communities, and increasing the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent and socially conscious physicians." This position has not only made me realize what it takes to take on a leadership position, but how to learn from others diligently.

What are your career goals?  

I am currently applying to preparatory post-baccalaureate programs where I hope to gain more research experience in Biomedical Imaging and Science, as well as Structural Biology and Proteomics. My long-term goal is to obtain my Ph.D. in Biochemistry with a possible concentration in Proteomics or Protein Engineering. I'd like to become a Research Scientist and work in a wet lab for the majority of my career.

College of Arts and Science