Ellianna Gazda '27

Ellianna Gazda '27 | Health Sciences major, Community and Public Health and Chemistry minor

When she’s not studying or conducting biomedical research, Ellianna Gazda '27 enjoys spending time outdoors and supporting local populations through community engagement. Though she initially saw herself as a physician assistant, Ellianna’s health sciences courses inspired her to work towards a career in medical laboratory science instead. She admires that the Health Sciences major covers a wide spectrum of scientific subjects and her professors’ unwavering dedication to student success.

How did you choose Saint Anselm College?

I knew I wanted to go to a smaller school with smaller class sizes for my academic success. I chose Saint Anselm because I immediately fell in love with the campus when I toured and knew it was the place I wanted to be!

How did you decide to become a Health Sciences major?

I knew I wanted to work in the healthcare industry and planned to become a physician assistant after I graduated. The Health Sciences major was the right fit because it fulfilled all the requirements I would need to pursue that career. However, because of the experience I gained in my health sciences courses, I developed a strong interest in the laboratory setting and now plan to do the Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Program.

How did you learn about the MLS Program?

My interest was sparked after my advisor informed me of the College’s partnership with the VA New England Healthcare System. The MLS Program will allow me to contribute to healthcare in a meaningful way while being immersed in a laboratory setting, which I highly enjoy. After I graduate, I plan to earn an MLS certification to become a medical laboratory scientist.

What is your favorite part about studying health sciences?

My favorite part is the flexibility to explore different sciences that are related to human health. The Health Sciences major requires you to take a variety of courses that help build a strong educational foundation for health-related fields. Some of the courses I have taken include topics like nutrition, psychology, physics, and organic chemistry.

Have you taken any non-major courses that you’ve really enjoyed?

One of my favorite classes was The Benedictines, which is a history class taught by Fr. Augustine Kelly, O.S.B. The class was about the history of the Benedictine religion, starting from its origin to where it is now. I don’t normally enjoy history, but The Benedictines was interesting because it directly connected to how the College was founded. Fr. Augustine’s class was interactive and truly showed the importance of the religion’s history because without it, there would be no Saint Anselm College, Abbey, or monastery.

How do you stay involved on the Hilltop?

I am a member of the Koinonia Society, which is a service society that has given me the opportunity to be involved in the Manchester community and form friendships within a supportive group. Through the Koinonia Society, I volunteer at events including monthly service at Food for Children in Manchester, Hawk Health Day, and the annual Manchester Marathon. The Society’s largest event is Relay for Life where we fundraise for cancer awareness and treatment every spring. Next year I’ll be participating in Road for Hope, a 130-mile walk from Lewiston, Maine, back to campus to raise money for nine local charities. Being involved in these experiences has helped me build relationships while supporting the community.

Have you done any research at Saint Anselm?

I’ve conducted biomedical research through NH-INBRE with Professor Jennifer Pace. The research focused on synthesizing compounds designed to inhibit cancer cell growth. The compounds are later tested in cancer cells to evaluate their biological response and effectiveness in targeting specific signaling pathways. I’ve enjoyed conducting experiments on my own but always know I have Professor Pace or my other peers alongside to help me.

Why is this research important?

Through this research, I’ve gained experience in a variety of organic chemistry techniques, including extractions, recrystallization, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and both gravity and flash column chromatography. I’ve also used analytical instrumentation such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and infrared (IR) spectroscopy to confirm the structures of synthesized compounds. I think the most important thing I’ve learned is how to utilize these techniques to build a stronger research foundation. Some experiments may not produce the results you expected, but that is all part of science.

Do you feel more prepared for a professional career from this research experience?

This research has strengthened my independence in the laboratory and helped me build the confidence to perform research at a higher level which will be important to my future career as a medical laboratory scientist. Participating in research also allowed me to think critically and problem solve while conducting experiments which are essential skills to have in a professional setting.

Why would you recommend someone study health sciences at Saint Anselm?

The welcoming professors and small class sizes make it easy to build meaningful relationships. Being at a smaller college has allowed me to truly get to know my professors and for them to get to know me as well. This is especially important when applying for future internships or postgraduate opportunities because professors can write strong, personalized letters of recommendation based on who you are beyond just your grades and transcript.

What do you like to do in your free time at Saint Anselm?

I love going on walks around campus with my friends, doing homework on the quads during the warmer months, and exploring nearby coffee shops in Goffstown and Manchester! Saint Anselm is about an hour from both the White Mountains and Portsmouth, which is perfect for day trips with friends to see the fall foliage or go to the beach on the hot days. I love the location!