Jordan Zezza, MOL Class of 2018

Email: jjz19@psu.edu

From: Wilkes-Barre, PA

Undergraduate Degree: Bachelors of Science in Neuroscience with a minor in Chemistry at Susquehanna University.

What previous internship(s) or work experience do you have?

I completed a summer internship as a research assistant and continued this role throughout my senior year at Susquehanna University. My research was conducted in a collaborative laboratory consisting of the Cassella and Reinhart Laboratories at Susquehanna University and the Grisel Lab at Bucknell University. In my role as a research assistant I performed experiments, analyzed data, and interpreted results to study the effects of stress on neuroimmune function in the prefrontal cortices of mice. I had the opportunity to present this data at a variety of symposiums, seminars, and conferences; including the National Conference on Undergraduate Research in Memphis, TN. As a result of the success of the laboratory, I received the Outstanding Research Award in Neuroscience for the Susquehanna University Class of 2017.

Why did you choose to pursue an MOL degree?

Although I am very passionate about neuroscience and research, I want to pursue a career where I can leverage my leadership ability and interpersonal skills more effectively. The reason I chose to study neuroscience was I wanted to have a positive impact on the lives of others through studying brain diseases and paving a path for treatments. However, I have come to find that I will likely be able to make a larger impact on the lives of others through a leadership position in the pharma/biotech or healthcare industries.

What has been your favorite aspect of the Smeal MOL degree thus far?

My favorite aspect of the Smeal MOL degree thus far is the exposure to companies. Susquehanna University, being a smaller institution, was a great home for four years but now I am able to experience the “power” of the larger schools. The attention that this degree is getting from employers is really exciting and I love being able to say I’m in the inaugural class.

What are your career goals and how will this MOL degree set you up to achieve those goals?

My career goal is to become a consultant in the healthcare or pharma/biotech industry. Thus far, I have had the opportunity to join the MBA, Consulting, and Healthcare Associations which have definitely helped in learning more about opportunities. I want to utilize the analytical skills I have attained through my undergraduate studies with the ability to effectively guide teams and organizations through the MOL program. This combination provides me with the skillset necessary to become a consultant in these industries.

What is an interesting fact about you that we would not find on your resume?

When I was younger, my little league baseball team won the Pennsylvania state championship. We made it to the regional final and lost to Maryland. We were one game away from playing in the Little League World Series.