NMCC Early College Student Participating in Prestigious Vanderbilt Research Internship

Kaydence Howes, an Ashland District School student who attends Caribou Tech Center and participates in Northern Maine Community College's Early College program, is spending part of her summer at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee as a participant in the Aspirnaut Summer Research Internship.

The Aspirnaut Internship is a highly selective STEM program hosted by Vanderbilt University Medical Center that provides students from rural communities with hands-on research experience, mentorship from scientists, and exposure to careers in science, healthcare, and medicine. Participants spend the summer working in laboratory settings while developing professional and research skills.

As both a dual enrollment and concurrent enrollment student, Kaydence has earned college credits through Northern Maine Community College while completing her high school education. Her acceptance into the program reflects her academic achievement and interest in pursuing a future in healthcare.

Kaydence became interested in the opportunity through her involvement with Bridge Academy Maine.

"I am part of Bridge Academy Maine and enrolled through Caribou Tech Center, which is how I heard about this opportunity. First, I was interested in the internship because it provides opportunities for scholarships. As I thought more about it, I also became excited about the experience and opportunities this internship could provide for my future."

Kaydence is especially looking forward to the hands-on experiences and connections it will provide.

"I think it will be the excitement of working in the lab. I also believe the most memorable part will be the people I meet along the way."

One of her primary goals for the summer is gaining practical experience in a research setting.

"I am hoping to gain knowledge and hands-on experience while working in the lab."

Kaydence also credits NMCC Life Sciences Faculty member Trena Soucy with helping prepare her for the opportunity.

"I know Trena personally, and she is an amazing professor. My experience in Trena's class has helped prepare me for this opportunity by providing me with background knowledge about the different systems of the human body."

The experience aligns closely with Kaydence's long-term educational and career goals in healthcare.

"I recently completed the Health Medical Sciences class through Caribou Tech and earned my PSS, BLS, and CNA. Having these certifications has helped start my career in the medical field. After high school, I plan to attend college to study nursing. My goal is to become a registered nurse and earn my bachelor's degree."

For those interested in more information about the Early College program at NMCC, visit www.nmcc.edu/high-school-college.