Andrew Utinans

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Department Affiliation

Department of Biological Sciences

NSU Major

BS Biology, MS Biological Sciences

NSU Minor Degree

Experiential Leadership

NSU Undergraduate Date

2024

NSU Graduate Degree Graduation Date

2025

Highest Degree Completed

Masters

Current Employer

NSU Barry & Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy

Position

PhD Student

NSU Experience

My time in the biology program at NSU gave me the foundation and confidence to pursue research in computational biology and structural modeling. The program challenged me to think critically and approach scientific questions with curiosity rather than memorization. What I appreciated most was the balance between academic rigor and personal support from faculty members who genuinely cared about my growth as a student. During my graduate studies, I learned how to analyze data, interpret scientific literature, and work through problems that did not always have straightforward answers. Those experiences prepared me for research environments where persistence matters just as much as technical skill. NSU also helped me become more confident presenting ideas and collaborating with others, which are skills I now use regularly in both teaching and research settings. To current students, I would say that growth often happens during the moments when you feel uncertain or overwhelmed. Do not be afraid to ask for help, visit office hours, or take opportunities that seem outside your comfort zone. Some of the most meaningful experiences in graduate school come from conversations with classmates and professors who challenge the way you think.