Natalie Briggs had just settled into her biology class at Plattsmouth (Neb.) High School when she was called to the vice principal’s office. She was confused, but she hadn’t done anything wrong.
“I walked into the office, and my whole family was there, along with my cross-country coach and biology teacher. They were holding a big check. My mouth just dropped open,” she recalled.
Natalie was awarded College of Saint Mary’s prestigious Marie Curie Scholarship, which provides significant financial support and resources to outstanding young women pursuing STEM majors – biology, chemistry, math, or human biology.
Marie Curie Scholars receive up to $20,000 annually for four years in gift aid. In addition to having access to substantial financial resources and facilities, participants also receive free tutoring, have opportunities for undergraduate research, and have access to top programs like the National Institute of Health and NASA research fellowships.
Natalie, a sophomore human biology major at CSM, is interested in a career in medicine. But she’s also learning about other potential options. “Marie Curie helps you explore different careers in science in general, so I thought that would be good for me,” she said. “It would help me see what’s out there.”
In addition to Marie Curie, Natalie has shadowed people in the medical field and joined CSM’s Pre-Physician Assistant Organization, which focuses on the application process to PA schools and provides resources to students. She’ll serve as vice president during the 2024-25 academic year and hopes to learn more about CSM’s PA program.
When Natalie explored her college options, CSM fit her academic needs and athletic desires. “Knowing that I could possibly run cross country and track interested me,” said Natalie, whose mother, Kathy, earned her master’s degree in occupational therapy from CSM.
“I love our team and our coach,” Natalie said. The team completed its running camp this summer in Wyoming. “I wanted a coach who would make me feel like part of the team, and I could make a big impact. That’s what I really enjoyed and liked.”
