Nicole Devine
Nicole Devine
Class Year
’14
Hometown
Elk Grove Village, Ill.
Major(s)
Biology
Minor(s)
Spanish, Criminal Justice
Nicole Devine loves a challenge. So she’s packed two minors into her biology major, giving her the perfect mix of challenge and academic excitement. Nicole is minoring in Spanish and criminal justice — a unique combination that’s the perfect step forward in her plan to work in forensic science.
Her lab experience at Carthage is giving her great practice. “The biology professors do a great job of educating students on many different lab techniques,” she said.
Nicole fell in love with Carthage on her first visit to campus.
“I was looking for a small school with a great biology program,” she said. With all the practical learning and the intimate class sizes, Carthage was the perfect fit. “Biology students at Carthage are very lucky. This department has some of the most educated and the kindest faculty members.”
Career goal
To work in forensic science.
How have Carthage faculty had an impact on your life or Carthage career?
“All of my professors at Carthage have been wonderful, but if I had to choose a few favorites, I would say Dr. Radwanski and Dr. Koudelka.”
Favorite class
“My favorite biology class was Genetics. My other favorite class was Police and Society.”
Campus involvement
Nicole still finds time to be active on campus. She is the junior risk management representative and recording secretary for Alpha Chi Omega, and a member of Alpha Mu Gamma and Beta Beta Beta. She also belongs to Carthage World Relief and Habitat for Humanity. In Student Government, she is the student government representative for Habitat for Humanity and a multicultural liaison.
Toughest class
“It’s a toss-up between Cellular and Molecular Biology and Genetics.”
Opportunities at Carthage
During J-Term 2012, Nicole gained even more hands-on experience on a study tour in Nicaragua. “I was able to learn all about the Nicaraguan culture, practice speaking Spanish, give medical assistance to people who really needed it, and have a great time,” she said. (Watch a video about this popular Carthage J-Term experience.)
Biggest surprise so far
“I am surprised with the amount of renovations that the school has done while I have been here, especially the Oaks, the Campbell Student Union, and the new cafeteria. Everything looks great.”
Why should other students consider your major? What advice do you have for them?
“While being a biology major is quite challenging, if you put in the work, you will be able to succeed.”