Beyond the Finish Line

 A member of Duquesne's Women's Rowing team, Jocelyn is also pursuing the University's 4+1 B.S. Biology and M.S. Biotechnology program. Between early-morning practices, undergraduate research, tutoring and campus involvement, she has discovered how discipline, collaboration and a commitment to personal growth can create opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.

“I was drawn to Duquesne because of the many incredible academic opportunities offered to me here such as Duquesne's Honors College, the Pre-medical and Health Professions Certificate Program (PMHPP), and the School of Science and Engineering’s strong emphasis on undergraduate research.”

“Mostly I wanted to attend a university that would allow me to challenge myself academically while providing opportunities to be a part of bigger things beyond the classroom to help me stand out,” Jocelyn shared.

Exploring Science Beyond the Classroom

Jocelyn's interest in biology stems from a curiosity about how the world works and the complex systems that shape life. Through the School of Science and Engineering, she has found opportunities to turn that curiosity into hands-on discovery.

Working in Dr. Brady Porter's laboratory, Jocelyn participates in undergraduate research studying carotenoid pigments in various darter fish species. She is working toward contributing to a published research paper, gaining firsthand experience with the questions, methods and collaboration involved in scientific discovery.

“Participating in undergraduate research and more hands-on learning opportunities has greatly helped me expand on my understanding of the material I study in class. Being able to apply concepts in a research setting has also allowed me to see how my classroom lectures are used in the real world."

"These experiences have also helped me develop more marketable technical and analytical skills that I can now use in my future career, while simultaneously giving me a better understanding of the opportunities available within biology and adjacent fields,” Jocelyn said.

She has also connected with researchers from other universities through faculty-led seminar lectures hosted by the school, broadening her understanding of scientific research and emerging topics across the field.

Outside the laboratory, Jocelyn is preparing an article for publication in D.U. Quark, exploring the effects of different substrates on single-chamber microbial fuel cells. The project reflects her interest in biotechnology and the potential to innovate by building upon the natural processes and mechanisms that shape the world around us.

“Altogether, these experiences have truly allowed me to interact with my interest in science in ways far beyond the classroom and have strengthened my confidence for my career path and wanting to further my experience in research,“ she shared.

Finding Strength Through Collaboration

For Jocelyn, some of her most meaningful college experiences have come from the relationships she has built with faculty, classmates and teammates.

“In the School of Science and Engineering, there are so many people willing to help and offer guidance, whether you're facing a challenge or simply need advice. Even when someone doesn't have the answer themselves, they're often able to connect you with helpful resources or someone who does."

"Science can be an incredibly competitive field, so having such a supportive culture creates an environment where students are encouraged to succeed together rather than compete against one another,” she shared.

That same spirit of collaboration extends to Duquesne's Women's Rowing team, which Jocelyn joined as a freshman walk-on. After spending more than a decade playing soccer as a goalkeeper and participating in other sports throughout high school, she welcomed the opportunity to return to a competitive team environment in college.

Since joining the team, she has developed a strong support system among her teammates and coaches. Beyond athletic competition, rowing has taught her the importance of accountability, commitment and working toward a shared goal.

"Some of the greatest growth comes from being surrounded by people who challenge you to become the best version of yourself constantly, and that's what this team does for each other," she shared.
The lessons she has learned on the water carry into her academic and professional pursuits. Whether working in a research laboratory or supporting fellow students, Jocelyn understands that meaningful accomplishments rarely happen alone.

Prepared to Take on Every Challenge

A typical day for Jocelyn begins around 5 a.m. with rowing practice. From there, she balances tutoring, classes, laboratory work, team lifts, afternoon practices, studying and club activities.

Managing these responsibilities has strengthened her time management and sense of accountability. She credits rowing with teaching her that consistency matters, even when circumstances are challenging.

One lesson has become particularly important to her: giving 100% of whatever she has to give on any given day.

"Even on days when you may only have 50% of your normal energy, you can still give 100% of that 50%," she explained.

That mindset has helped Jocelyn approach demanding days with greater perspective, recognizing that growth comes from consistently showing up and making the most of each opportunity.

She also emphasizes the importance of being present. Rather than worrying about an upcoming exam while at practice or thinking about an afternoon workout during class, she focuses on the responsibility in front of her.

For Jocelyn, learning to shift her attention between competing priorities has been one of the most valuable lessons of her college experience.

Empowering Others Through Service

While Jocelyn is proud of her academic and athletic accomplishments, some of her most meaningful experiences have involved giving back to the Duquesne community.

As a member of the executive board of the School of Science and Engineering Mentorship Program, she helps oversee the program and personally mentors incoming STEM students as they navigate their transition to college.

She has also participated in university service opportunities with organizations including Red Door and St. Vincent de Paul, along with charity initiatives through the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and other campus-wide events.

These experiences have allowed her to connect with people beyond her immediate academic and athletic circles while reinforcing the importance of using her opportunities to support others.

“More than any individual accomplishment, I am really proud to be part of a university culture that values service. It has really reinforced the idea that making a positive impact on others can begin long before stepping into a future career, and for that I am truly grateful,” said Jocelyn.

Advice for Future Student-Athletes

For students considering a rigorous STEM major alongside collegiate athletics, Jocelyn offers a simple but meaningful piece of advice: be where your feet are.

She recognizes that balancing a demanding academic schedule with Division I athletics can feel overwhelming, particularly when thinking about everything that needs to be accomplished. However, she believes focusing on the task and people directly in front of you makes even the busiest days more manageable.

Whether she is preparing for an early-morning practice, working through a research project or mentoring a fellow STEM student, Jocelyn continues to embrace each opportunity as a chance to grow.

“Duquesne has provided me with the opportunity to challenge and express myself beyond just my courses, whether that was through research, community service, or club involvement. I really do believe that these experiences have ultimately allowed me to build my character beyond just my education which in turn makes me grow as both a person and a professional.”