Gabby Sonderegger ’23 is a chemistry major from Washington state, although she mostly grew up in Maryland. Gabby became interested in chemistry in high school because she found the subject challenging.
Her dream is to become a research scientist at a national lab. In fact, she decided to study chemistry at Pacific because of the university’s new research opportunities. Last summer, as a recipient of Pacific’s Stauffer Charitable Trust Challenge Grant, she was able to work on synthesizing molecular switches which have a potential use in cancer drug delivery systems.
What is your favorite thing to do on campus after class?
Going to concerts at the Conservatory of Music.
Is there a faculty or staff member at Pacific whom you will stay in touch with after you graduate?
Professor Vyacheslav Samoshin.
What is the latest that you’ve stayed up to study for a test?
Until 2 a.m.
If you have a best friend at Pacific, what’s their major?
Geological and environmental science.
What is your favorite class and what’s the hardest one?
I like physical chemistry a lot, but organic chemistry is the hardest.
What’s your favorite food at the campus cafeteria?
I just grab salads because there’s never a line.
What is your favorite place to study on campus?
The library.
What is your favorite place to hang out on campus?
Robb Garden is really nice.
What is your favorite thing to do off-campus?
Hiking. There are a lot of national parks pretty close by.