Learning, Leading, and Giving Back: What One International Student Did Last Summer

At both conferences, she presented proteins that can detect the presence of neuraminic acid, a biomarker for oral cancer. “When the protein detects the acid, it will create a light signal. So, it’s a very noninvasive way to test if someone has oral cancer,” she explained.

The first presentation was given at the Boston Bacterial Meeting held in June, and the second was at the MERCURY Consortium, held in July in Pittsburgh, PA.  

A native of Uruguay, Agustina found a home when she arrived at St. John’s University in 2022 and a supportive community that allowed her to develop her passion for science, service, and mentorship.

Both of Agustina’s parents worked in the medical field, and while she was inclined toward medicine, she was unsure whether  she wanted to work directly with patients or as a clinician conducting research. “I realized I much prefer working in the background, which is still productive, still helping people.”

Agustina had family living in the US and knew she wanted to attend college near New York City. After a campus visit, she fell in love with St. John’s. 

“Here was a place I could combine my love of biology and chemistry,” she stressed. “I loved the campus. The views of the city are beautiful, and it’s only a subway ride away.”

At St. John’s, Agustina quickly became a leader. “There’s a big international community here,” she said. “I started making friends through joining clubs and becoming active in the Department of Chemistry.”

Currently, Agustina serves as President of the St. John’s chapter of the American Chemical Society, and mentors with Project AIM, a peer mentoring program that supports student belonging and success. Additionally, she serves as Student Coordinator for the International Student Council and tutors with the University’s English Language Institute.

Agustina remembers what it was like to be a stranger on campus and is grateful for all the resources St. John’s offered to make her feel welcome. To her, it’s only natural to give back.

Agustina enjoyed presenting at the conferences, developing her confidence, networking with peers, and learning from others’ research. At these events, she felt part of a larger supportive community. “Maybe they’re doing something similar or maybe something you haven’t thought about,” she said.

A senior, Agustina is already thinking about doctoral programs and ultimately wants to run her own lab. “I’m leaning toward a more academic setting,” she shared. “I love the idea of having my own team and choosing what research to conduct.”

Agustina believes that connection is as important as discovery. At St. John’s, she has immersed herself in a community that inspires her to give back. 

“I have amazing professors at St. John’s with whom I do research, and I love how approachable they are. I appreciate their mentoring style. They aren’t just colleagues, but friends.”

She added, “I see myself drawing on their example. I love seeing people grow.”