Chemistry Students Blaze Trail in First-Ever GVSU Research Partnership
June 3, 2025 A new partnership between Grand Valley State University (GVSU) and Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) is giving two chemistry students a life-changing opportunity to conduct paid research and prepare for careers in the sciences. The pilot program, made possible by a generous donation from Clark and Nancy Borgeson, was created specifically for GRCC students. The program offers hands-on research, professional development and financial support — and both institutions hope to make it a permanent, endowed opportunity. Starting in May, chemistry students Marcos Conde and Dylan Serie will begin working alongside a GVSU faculty member in a laboratory setting. In addition to research, they will attend weekly development activities to learn how to write up and present their research, how to prepare for life after college, how to write a CV or resume and gain skills for team management. At the end of the program, the students will present their work at the GVSU’s Student Scholars Summer Showcase. The program also provides a stipend, helping students balance their academic and financial responsibilities. “A lot of our students have to work, so this being funded and a research opportunity is a win-win for our students,” said chemistry professor William Faber. Both students asked Professor Faber for letters of recommendation when applying. “To have a slam dunk that we’re going to put a couple of students out there every year is incredible. Both Marcos and Dylan have a sense that if they work on a specific project, it’s rewarding to be a contributor. I think that’s a neat thing for them and I’m so excited about this partnership with GVSU,” continued Faber. A Powerful Comeback: Marcos Conde Marcos Conde returned to college after years in the service industry, determined to change the direction of his life. Now in his mid 40’s, he views the opportunity as part of a greater mission. “The human mind is a very powerful tool. It’s not about the destination for me,” said Conde. “One thing that is magical about academia and going to school no matter your age, you think you want to help the world in one way, but you realize there’s so many avenues to help.” Through the encouragement of Professor Faber, Conde knew he wanted to throw his hat in the ring. “A big driving force is that it’s not just about me anymore,” said Conde. “It’s about the future versions of me that want to get into chemistry. If I’m able to add to the step for someone else, it's an amazing thing to be a part of.” A Lifelong Passion: Dylan Serie For Dylan Serie, chemistry has always been a clear path. “One big thing for me was chemistry was always the main goal. One of my professors, Professor Kudrna, really helped me,” said Serie. “There is great value in being a part of the Borgeson Program. The job market wants you to have years of experience. Being in my early 20’s, I don’t have any of that. Having this opportunity at GRCC, through GVSU, with it also being a paid program, it’s a very valuable opportunity. I’m very grateful for the chance to be a part of this.” Chemistry professor Amy Kudrna emphasized the incredible foundational knowledge offered through GRCC. Invested faculty, like her and Professor Faber, make a world of difference in the students’ experiences. “Dylan shows an intellectual curiosity in the chemistry courses he’s had with me,” said Kudrna. “This research program is an excellent opportunity to learn and fully experience the research process. This experience will help enrich a student’s chemistry background and prepare them for transferring.” Paying It Forward Through Science “It’s great to know that we’re pioneers for the potential future of this program,” said Conde. “We’re going to be able to learn a skill set in a concentrated amount of time. It’s a big driving force to do my best because this is beyond me. I’m thankful for the consideration of the future.” Both students are eager to start the summer research experience. “The fun of chemistry is how applicable it is to a lot of things in life,” said Serie. “How we think, to how we absorb energy from food to power ourselves. That’s what I truly love about the sciences, it’s everywhere you go. Just taking a simple step, you’ve done three different fields of science: chemistry, physics and exercise science. That’s the true fun of it.” GVSU expressed excitement about the strength of the applicant pool, noting that each candidate showed impressive knowledge and readiness. Being selected for the inaugural cohort is a major honor for Conde and Serie — and an important first step in shaping their careers. “It’s rare in your first two years to have an opportunity like this,” said Professor Faber. “It’s one thing to say you want to go into science and another to get into a lab and really decide it’s what you want. Marcos and Dylan have a chance to really figure that out for themselves through this program.” Partnerships like the Borgeson Program remove a lot of hurdles for students. “The connection is pretty important,” said Conde. “Getting people together like GVSU and GRCC, coming as one mind, is a big deal. It opens doors for students. I hope it continues to help people like me and anyone who is curious. Sometimes you just need to go for it.” Learn more about the sciences at GRCC This story was reported by Anjula Caldwell