SXU Biology Pre-Health Student Presents at Research Symposium
Saint Xavier University (SXU) biology pre-health student Nicole Vilcamiche recently presented her project, "Examining the Reaction of Common E-Cigarette Flavorings with Calcium Phosphate," at SXU's 2023 EXPLORE STEM Research Fellowship Symposium.
Vilcamiche's research focused on how different types of e-cigarette flavorings influence oral health. Along with her mentor, Dr. James Kiddle, she examined the effects when combining common e-cigarette flavors such as ethyl vanillin and ethyl maltol separately with calcium phosphate, a main chemical component of teeth and bones.
Since Vilcamiche plans to be a dentist, the concept of the project fascinated her, and she wanted to spend more time researching how e-cigarettes, which are heavily used by young people, affect oral health. For her summer research, she looked at the concept as a chemistry project, but she plans to continue her research over time and view it from a microbiology lens.
"This project allowed me to get hands-on experience that will help me to be better prepared for future research I will conduct throughout my career. Participating in these types of projects are extremely beneficial for the development of research-induced critical thinking. It helped me with time management and planning skills and also improved my lab techniques," said Vilcamiche.
Vilcamiche especially enjoyed getting to network with other students doing research.
"Many of us are first-generation students, so it was nice to not feel alone in this process. I also enjoyed seeing how proud and happy the staff and faculty were about each student's accomplishments," said Vilcamiche.
Vilcamiche, who also minors in chemistry and Spanish, chose to study biology pre-health because she found it to be an academically challenging major and has always been fascinated by how biology involves the study of various other subjects such as chemistry, physics and math. She also knew her studies would prepare her for applying for and being accepted into dental school.
"One of the many reasons I chose SXU is because of the research opportunities offered to STEM majors. My classes at SXU are preparing me to be ready for dental school and giving me important information on biology in relation to health care, which makes me knowledgeable in various subjects and helps me to think about improving future patient outcomes," said Vilcamiche.
Vilcamiche enjoys taking advantage of the many co-curricular activities offered at SXU and feels that the organizations she is part of have improved her social connections and will open doors to new opportunities. She is currently treasurer of Tau Sigma Honor Society, public relations officer of the Student Government Association, and a member of Sin Límites.
"One of the many things that I enjoy about SXU is its diversity. While connecting with students from different backgrounds, I am able to see the world from different points of view. Understanding their perspectives, I gain a deeper comprehension about global issues," said Vilcamiche.
Vilcamiche is appreciative of the support she's received and grateful for the success she's enjoyed.
"I thank my faculty and staff leaders who have always supported me throughout my SXU journey. Without their help and understanding, I would not have been able to accomplish every success I have had thus far," said Vilcamiche.
Into the future, Vilcamiche plans to continue doing research and looks forward to attending dental school and beginning her journey in dentistry.
This research program was supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation (No. 1832511).