Alumni Spotlight on DreAna Heidenreich

DreAna Heidenreich is a graduate of the MS-RSM program, Class of 2019. She completed the non-thesis track and conducted research with Dr. Pamela Monahan. She is currently in her first year of medical school at Rosalind Franklin University. 

Mentor: Dr. Pamela Monahan, PhD 

Project title: Influence of Estrogen on Notch Signaling in Granulosa Cells 

What is your connection to the CRS community and what is your current position?  

I was a graduate of the 2019 MS-RSM non-thesis class. During my time at Northwestern, I worked with Dr. Monahan on a project focusing on estrogen effects on notch signaling, a pathway involved in the development of mutioocytic follicles, in granulosa cells.  

Could you describe your current research/studies? 

Following graduation, I accepted a clinical research coordinator position in medical oncology. After over a year in this position, I decided to change focus and I am currently in my first year of podiatric medical school at Rosalind Franklin University.  

 What aspect(s) of CRS did you find most valuable?  

One of the most valuable aspect that I took from the CRS is how interprofessionalism is. Throughout my education at Northwestern, collaboration is a main focus. With the size of the CRS, getting to know and work with other scientists, clinicians, etc., this is how we will make the biggest impact.   

What has been the most valuable aspect to your training as a reproductive scientist in CRS? 

During my project, I worked side-by-side with another student and learned a lot from working with him. He taught me that failure is still a result and sometimes failure is acceptable. We utilized core lab skills including primary and immortalized cell cultures, gene analysis and developed scientific writing skills. Attending grand rounds and other various talks also helped mold me into a well-rounded scientist.  

What would you recommend to junior scientists in order for them succeed in their scientific careers?​  

Immerse yourself in the experience. I could not stand when people used to say this to me, but it is true, you get out what you put in.  

What do you think will be the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field?  

With my change in career goals, I am not sure what my next big contribution to the reproductive biology field will be. However, I think possibilities are endless!  

Do you have any notable stories from your time in CRS? 

I enjoyed so much of my time at in the CRS, while I learned so much, I also made lasting connections. One of the most notable stories that I have from my time in the CRS has to be attending the Oncofertility Consortium. This community networking opened my eyes to the field and how much discovery there is left in the field of reproductive biology.