Written by: Marisa B. Kelly, B.A.
Research Tech Intermediate
My name is Marisa Kelly and I have had the privilege of working with the Prechter Bipolar Research Program for almost three years now. I am currently the lead Research Technician in Dr. McInnis's lab and have an exciting announcement to share. As of late November 2016, I have accepted an offer to enroll into the Post-baccalaureate Premedical Program at the University of Michigan Medical School (Postbac MEDPREP). Classes will begin this coming May 2017. This program will be 14 months of classes, after which I will have the support of the program while taking the MCAT and applying to Medical School.
I aspire to earn an M.D./Ph.D. in Psychiatry and Neuroscience (Ph.D. subject to change), and will be applying to Medical Scientist Training Programs (MSTPs) beginning in mid-2018, with hopes to enter a matriculating class of 2019. In order to fully prepare for this exciting and challenging change, I have decided that my final work date with the Prechter research team will be Friday, March 31st, 2017.
It is difficult for me to put into words how much I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a member of this dynamic team. I have learned so much here, have been challenged in so many ways, and have also grown both personally and professionally over the past three years. It has been such an honor to interact with our exceptional research participants in our various studies over the years, and to gain valuable insight into the lives of those with and without mental illness. I will without a doubt carry these experiences with me for the entirety of my career. Additionally, I have made unforgettable friendships, and hope to continue to foster collaborative relationships with our wonderful research investigators and staff. I was encouraged by my new advisor to continue a research relationship in some capacity throughout MEDPREP, considering the fact that I want to focus my career on research. I am so lucky to have identified such a wonderful team to maintain this continued collaboration with!
To our research staff and participants alike: Thank you for the wonderful memories, the never-ending support, the continued opportunities to be a part of important and groundbreaking research, and, most importantly, thank you for your professional camaraderie. I am so happy that I found a home here at the University of Michigan, and that I am fortunate enough to continue my studies here. Thank you all for helping to shape me into the future professional I aspire to be.
Wishing you all nothing but the best in the New Year,
Marisa