Ifeoma Mba-Madubuike (’24)

First-year medical student, Howard University

As a recent graduate of Georgetown University’s one-year M.S. in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology program and a first-year medical student at Howard University, I am excited to share the profound impact this program has had on my journey.

The program provided an intensive, yearlong curriculum that exceeded my expectations. It offered a solid foundation in molecular biology and biochemistry, with coursework in molecular medicine, gene editing, and medical toxicology. This foundation has been invaluable as I now study the Molecules and Cells unit in medical school, which builds directly on the knowledge gained from Georgetown’s Fundamentals of Biochemistry.

One of the standout aspects of the program was the research experience. Under the guidance of Dr. Ecelbarger, I worked on a project exploring PTEN’s role in metabolic acidosis-induced insulin resistance, an experience that was both challenging and rewarding. The research component not only honed my technical skills, such as Western blotting and various assay techniques, but also strengthened my critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

The program’s focus on leadership and academic excellence was evident in various initiatives. As Class President, I had the privilege of working closely with my peers and faculty, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. The recognition I received, including the Dean’s Excellence Scholarship and one of the Best Internship Presentation awards, is a testament to the program’s commitment to nurturing and acknowledging its students’ achievements.

Overall, the M.S. in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology program has been transformative. I am confident that the skills and knowledge I gained will continue to benefit me as I advance in my medical education and future career. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to anyone passionate about pursuing a career in the biomedical sciences.