Science appeals to Kyenna Futrell because she loves solving puzzles, and she seeks to make life better for future generations.
“Science is one big puzzle. You are given a problem and you have to solve for the answer or solve different parts to bring everything together.”
When she graduates in May 2027, Kyenna will have a degree in molecular biology with a minor in biochemistry from Ohio Northern University.
For this Newark High School alumnus from Newark, Ohio, it will be the next big step toward her goal of acquiring a Ph.D. and either working at the Nationwide Children’s Research Institute or doing research for a biotechnology institution.
“I’ve always been intrigued with biology and knew I wanted to go to school for it, but I didn’t know what biological path to take. I’ve also been in the care of Nationwide Hospital since the age of 12 and would love to give back.”
Another factor was the enriched biology class she took as a sophomore in high school, which “made me fall in love with learning about cells and DNA.”
Kyenna is a member of Phi Sigma Rho. A French horn player, she also participates in the Ƶ marching band and Northern Winds. These organizations have given her “friends who care for me and a group where I belong.”
Ƶ provides the ideal University experience, she says. “Being in a small town just makes it feel very homey and peaceful.”