The Cancer Center at Illinois (CCIL) is training the next generation of cancer researchers. We offer this Q&A series “Get to Know a Cancer Scholar” to provide readers a connection with the amazing trainees who comprise the CCIL’s cohort of student-researchers. This is the first installment.
Cancer Scholar: Emily Depke
Major: Neural Engineering
What interested you in the Cancer Scholars Program?
I was drawn to the Cancer Scholars Program because of its extensive opportunities in research, public involvement, and professional collaboration. The program also stood out to me because of how it implements UIUC’s engineering strengths in its approach to cancer. As an engineer myself, the idea of being a part that process was exciting to me.
What have you learned during your time in the Cancer Scholars Program?
During my time in the Cancer Scholars Program, I have learned a lot about sustainable research design, public awareness on cancer topics, and possible career paths. I’ve also gained critical skills on how to communicate highly technical research findings with general audiences.
Why is doing cancer research personally meaningful to you?
To me, doing cancer research is personally meaningful because of my rural background and my connections to those who have faced cancer. I’ve seen first-hand how cancer impacts lives and how the effects of healthcare disparities can worsen this impact. As a result, addressing these disparities and helping lives through cancer research is incredibly important to me.
How would you explain your research project to a friend outside science?
To a friend outside of science, I would describe my research project as an exploration of how technology can be used to help people in small towns get screened for cancer.
What are your future career goals and how has Cancer Scholars influenced these goals?
In the future, I plan to pursue a PhD with a research focus on early cancer detection. My experiences as a Cancer Scholar are primarily responsible for inspiring this goal, for this program has allowed me to engage in research and cancer topics in a way that has helped me realize my passion for oncological research.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in doing cancer research?
My advice for someone interested in doing cancer research is to never be afraid to pursue what’s challenging. In the past, I held myself back by believing cancer research was above the scope of my skillset. Now, I can’t imagine a more meaningful way to apply myself, and I wouldn’t have gotten to this point if I had kept underestimating what I was capable of.
What hobby or interest helps you recharge after a long week?
I love playing the flute and building cool structures in Minecraft with my friends after a long week.
What is your favorite study spot on campus?
My favorite study spot on campus is the Beckman Atrium.
Stay tuned for more weekly installments in our “Get to Know a Cancer Scholar” series.
Editor’s notes:
This story was written by Craig Richard, CCIL Educational Engagement Postdoctoral Scholar.