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 [Education](/CSR-News/education)

 # Meet Amgen Scholar Alumni Carly O'Connor

 


 

 Nov 17, 2015 8:45 AM ET

  Campaign:  [Amgen Scholars Program ](/news/campaign/amgen-scholars-program)  ![](https://3blaws.s3.amazonaws.com/styles/carousel_2x/s3/images/alumn-Carly-OConnor.jpg) 

*"I have been studying Japanese for eight years, and the ability to use my language skills and conduct science is incomparable to any other experience I have ever had."*

Host University: The University of Tokyo

Home University: University of Pittsburgh

Amgen Scholar Year: 2015

Major: Neuroscience, Japanese

Expected Graduation: 2016

 

**Academic and Professional Ambitions**

*What inspired you to major in science?*

“I became interested in scientific research due to a number of factors. The biggest factor was my brother, who was diagnosed with autism at a young age. I viewed research as a necessity for his well-being and for understanding his condition. Then, in middle school I had an amazing teacher that got me interested in cellular biology and the life sciences, which I eventually combined with my desire to become a doctor.

*What's the larger significance of your Amgen Scholars research? What's your ultimate career goal?*

“The project I'm working on has to do with studying cumulus cells around a developing oocyte, which has huge implications for fertility treatment. It is my first venture into women's health biology, which I realized is an area that is historically under-researched. I was happy to actually see the project through and obtain results, which is another new experience! I hope to one day be a practicing gynecologist who continues to work in this research field.”

*Why did you apply to the Amgen Scholars Program?*

“What really cemented the Amgen Scholars Program for me was the availability of a project in women's health that perfectly aligned with my interests, and the opportunity to study in Japan. I have been studying Japanese for eight years, and the ability to use my language skills and conduct science is incomparable to any other experience I have ever had.”

*What aspects of the program are you most enjoying this summer?*

“Working with the equipment available at The University of Tokyo, and actually seeing and manipulating cells is something I've always read about in textbooks but never had a chance to do myself. I feel that my Japanese has improved greatly and I love the way Japanese labs are run. Being able to climb mountains, eat okonomiyake (Japanese savory pancake) and wear a traditional yukata with my lab members is something that I will never forget it.”

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To learn more about the Amgen Scholars Program, please visit our [website](http://www.amgenscholars.com/) and check out the #AmgenScholars hashtag on Twitter. Visit [AmgenInspires.com](http://www.amgeninspires.com/) and follow @AmgenFoundation to stay up to date with all STEM-related news from the Amgen Foundation.





 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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