Elise Schicker, a biotechnology major from Hillsdale, NJ, is graduating in the spring 2025 with plans to pursue a Ph.D. in neuroscience. Schicker is currently working in the neurosurgery department at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School researching epilepsy, specifically SUDEP (sudden and unexpected death in epilepsy). She hopes to apply her experience to studying neurodegenerative diseases more broadly as a doctoral candidate with a focus on dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Elise Schicker, a biotechnology major, reflects on her time at Rutgers. Photo credits: Office of Public Outreach and Communication, Chris Gutierrez
“One of the most appealing career paths is to be a faculty member,” said Schicker. “I really enjoy both the research and teaching aspect. Scientific communication is critical right now, and I’d like to help on the frontlines.”
One needn’t personally experience the tragic circumstances of Alzheimer’s to study it, but Schicker has. She witnessed the mental decline of two grandparents.
“They were in perfect physical health when they started to decline mentally. Watching the effects it had on my family was devastating. It’s something we should have a resolution for in the future,” said Schicker. “Unfortunately, it’s not an uncommon affliction. It’s so sad seeing someone go from so full of life and energy to not knowing where they are, not recognizing you.”
A macabre fascination to some, neuroscience needs researchers like Schicker to develop treatments. Schicker started her research at Rutgers, which was a top choice as an undergrad and remains her top choice as a PhD candidate.
“I love the diversity of opinion at Rutgers. You don’t see it at every school,” said Schicker. “Really, it was the diversity of research and people that made me so sure I wanted to come here.”
Personal growth and advice
Self-actualization is hard work, and it doesn’t come about through academic study alone. It’s a holistic process, says Schicker, who credits her experience in cooperative living at Helyar House for her developing a strong and realistic understanding of how to get along in the world.
Elise Schicker at Rutgers Day 2024.
“Living at Helyar House fosters a sense of community and shared accountability,” said Schicker, who’s been elected as President of Helyar House for two years. “Part of my role is to handle interpersonal conflict. It’s taught me to be less of a people pleaser, and more of an open, realistic negotiator. I am able to walk the line between being a friend and a colleague.”
Her advice to current and aspiring students? Keep an open mind.
“What helps me is keeping my options and mind open. I find that when I keep my mind open to new experiences that I’m constantly learning and growing,” said Schicker. “As a student, it’s important to learn both academically and socially. Get involved in leadership programs and clubs that are both specific and unrelated to your major. Take the courses that might be interesting to you. You’ll walk away from that experience more informed about yourself and direction in life.”
