Mark Bickley

Why did you choose chemistry as your major?

I knew that I was interested in the STEM field. In a core-required class, I realized that I wanted to major in chemistry when my professor was lecturing about titanium, an element, being used in making bridges. I started thinking of all the chemistry related ideas I learned in AP Chemistry back in high school, and declared my major later that week.

What do you enjoy most about chemistry?

I love how molecules will react with one another to form a product that can potentially be used in helping someone. Chemistry is everywhere; in nature, in medicine, and in many daily processes we may take for granted.

How has being a chemistry major benefited you?

I've been able to build a very solid foundation in many areas of chemistry. This strong foundation has helped me achieve post-graduation goals, such as my acceptance into the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. Towson's chemistry major program, in addition to its extremely helpful faculty, not only prepared me but also gave me the confidence needed to pursue this new exciting phase of my education.

Have you received any internship or job opportunities through the chemistry department?

I've been offered and accepted the Department of Chemistry's Raspet Summer Research Fellowship, which pays a stipend of $5,000 to conduct research over an 8-10 week period in the summer. In addition, the Department of Chemistry has connected me with several internship possibilities located in Baltimore County. Being active in undergraduate research requires a professional level of commitment, and will only help bridge the gap between the world of the undergraduate and the real world.

“ I've been able to build a very solid foundation in many areas of chemistry. ”