What CP Alumni Say

Joseph Orenstein has distinguished himself through exceptional academic performance and research involvement. During his time at OW, he was selected for the NY ACS Excellence in Chemistry for Undergraduates, a departmental nomination given to only one Chemistry major each year. He also received the ACS Undergraduate Award in Analytical Chemistry, a national honor recognizing his outstanding potential in the field. In addition to these awards, Joseph was honored at the 2025 SUNY Old Westbury Honors Convocation for academic excellence and Academic Achievement for his contribution to undergraduate research. His success reflects a strong commitment to learning, a passion for chemistry, and active participation in the department’s academic and research programs.

After graduation, Joseph will begin a master’s program in Chemical Engineering at Stony Brook University. He credits his SUNY Old Westbury experience for laying the foundation for graduate study, noting the rigorous coursework and research opportunities as key to his preparation. “SUNY OW provided top-quality education and helped shape my path forward,” he shared. When asked what advice he would offer to current students, Joseph emphasized the importance of mentorship and guidance. “Use your advisor! It’s not mandated that you meet with them, but you should do so at least once a semester. It helps build relationships and opens the door to research and other opportunities,” he said. His experience is a reminder of how proactive engagement and strong support systems can open pathways to success. 

Well done, Joseph! We’re so proud of you and excited to see where your journey takes you next. 

Last update July 16, 2025

We proudly celebrate Melodie Cadichon, Class of 2025, who is now pursuing a Ph.D. in Biochemistry at Pennsylvania State University.

At SUNY Old Westbury, Melodie earned top honors for her academic and research excellence, including the Academic Excellence and Outstanding Achievement in Research awards at the 2025 Honors Convocation, the NY ACS Excellence in Biochemical Sciences Award, and the ACS Outstanding Undergraduate in Biochemistry or Chemical Biology Award.

Her journey was shaped by the Sophomore Jump program, which connected her with Dr. Youngjoo Kim and led to three years of research, two REU summer programs, and ultimately, graduate school acceptance. “As an undecided sophomore, research set me on my current path,” Melodie reflects. “The Chemistry and Physics Department offered the resources and support that helped me grow and connect with amazing people.” Her advice to students: “Embrace the uncomfortable! I almost passed up opportunities because I didn’t feel qualified. But discomfort is part of growth. Don’t let self-doubt hold you back—some of my best experiences came from pushing through that. And remember, networking can open more doors than you think.”

Congratulations, Melodie—we’re proud of you and can’t wait to see what you achieve next!

Last update: July 11, 2025 

Damin Justin Rush is poised to graduate in 2024 with a B.S. in Biochemistry from SUNY Old Westbury. As a Panther CURE scholar, Damin has committed significant time beyond the classroom to pursue research endeavors, focusing on type I photosensitization of thiopurine prodrug, specifically delving into the production of superoxide radicals upon UVA illumination of 6-thioguanine. This research was showcased at the SUNY Undergraduate Research Conference (SURC) held at Suffolk County Community College on April 26, 2024. Damin's natural charm and eloquence have shone through as he actively engaged in Open House activities and participated in various on and off-campus events. As Damin continues to progress in his academic and professional journey, the Chemistry and Physics Department extends our heartfelt wishes for ongoing success and fulfillment.

How did SUNY OW and the department prepare you for your careers?

The exposure and experience I gained at SUNY OW equipped me with the knowledge and mindset essential for success in my chosen field, paving the way for a smooth transition into the workforce.

What advice do you have for the current students?

I advise all current students to put themselves in uncomfortable situations now because when you are finally in the real world you won't feel as scared. I also encourage current students to go and network. Sell yourself, as it will have a lasting effect on a lot of things. Moreover, speaking from personal experience as a biochemistry major, joining CSTEP program was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I had the opportunity to attend conferences and observe professionals in my field illustrating how the work will be done. In this way, there would be no surprises when I eventually started working in my field.

Last update: May 18, 2024

Thiago Araujo De Figueiredo is graduating in 2024 with a B.S. in Biochemistry. He's an honor student, winning awards like the Outstanding College Student Award for Excellence in Chemical Biology from the American Chemical Society NY Section in 2023 and Academic Excellence and Academic Achievement in Research awards from SUNY OW in 2024. Thiago is moving on to a Ph.D. program at the University of Washington, Seattle in 2024 with full funding. Congrats, Thiago! Great job!

How did SUNY OW and the department prepare you for your careers?

SUNY OW has given me all the opportunities I needed to learn how to conduct meaningful research. Starting in my sophomore year I started working with Dr. Solomon Chak at the Biological Sciences department, after that I worked for two year with Dr. Youngjoo Kim at the Chemistry and Physics Department. Those two experiences taught me the basic foundations of conducting research, Having an open mind, Hard Work and Persistence.

What advice do you have for the current students?

If you are interested in ever going into the scientific field, don't be afraid to ask professors to enter their labs! In fact, most of them are actively looking for hard working students! Another tip is to prioritize your classes, lab work can take too much of your time, if you need to take a break to study for a test, do it! Most Ph.D. programs in the US don't require a masters! All you need is extensive research experience which you can acquire during your undergraduate. Also, always try to apply to an REU during the summer!

Last updated: April 26, 2024

Nelson Euceda, a CSTEP student, graduated with BS. in Biochemistry and B.S. in Mathematics in 2019. He was a Chemistry Research Coordinator at Spectronics Corporation in Long Island. In March 2023, Nelson was accepted to UC Berkeley’s Masters of Engineering program with a concentration in Biomaterials and Biomedical Devices. His tuition will be covered partially by Fung Excellence + Opportunity Grant. Nelson, congratulations! 

He is now a Student Recruitment Ambassador at Berkeley.

How did SUNY OW and the department prepare you for your careers?

SUNY OW and the Chemistry and Physics department prepared me for my career by exposing me to different analytical tools and research methods. Having the opportunity to work in a research group allowed me to gain experience and skills that I later applied in an industrial lab setting.

What advice do you have for the current students?

I would let current students know that SUNY OW has an abundant number of resources for career preparation and assistance in deciding the next step after completing undergraduate studies. Speak to professors or other faculty members about what your interests are or if you don't have a specific interest, join a research group for an opportunity to use the knowledge gained in the classroom and learn new skills. Use tutoring services provided by OW. It is free!

Last updated: October 25, 2024

Meghaben K. Kothari graduated with ACS-certified B.S. in Biochemistry in 2022 and accepted into the master's program at Stony Brook University. Meghaben, the job was well done! We are looking forward to seeing your success in the future!

How did SUNY OW and the department prepare you for your careers?

While taking additional coursework as required for ACS certification, I developed my professional and laboratory skills further. I have always been interested in pursuing a career in a laboratory setting and now I am planning apply for a PhD program in the near future. I had to take additional coursework including Physical chemistry, Analytical chemistry, Inorganic chemistry, and last but not least Advanced chemical methods. Though, upon completion of the above classes I came to understand the field of chemistry better and even found the course work very interesting. Particularly where I had to design my own self designed lab.

What advice do you have for the current students?

If you have time and are interested in pursuing a PhD program in the future, then getting an ACS certification will be greatly appreciated. The department offers great advice for future endeavors. If you are unsure or have any questions/concerns, then always email the department chair, faculty or secretary.

Last updated: March 28, 2023