Emily Murphy

Current Position: Master of Science in Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy Student

After graduating from the St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls in 2021, Emily Murphy studied pre-pharmacy studies before transferring to GMercyU her junior year. She wanted a more research-based major like GMercyU’s Biology program.

What sold her? "GMercyU was transparent with my credits and course offerings. Dr. McEliece laid out a detailed plan for me to finish up my coursework in the two years I was hoping for. She was honest with me while remaining supportive, and made me feel welcomed without ever stepping foot on campus,” Emily explained.

Emily’s first visit to campus was for the Transfer Student Orientation. “I learned a lot that day and was able to get a more formal feel for the campus and community,” Emily said. “As nervous as I was to attend, I left knowing I had made the right decision to attend Gwynedd Mercy University.”

Experience in the Biology Program

Emily enjoyed the hands-on and unique lab experiences in the Biology program. In particular, she loved Dr. Lettini’s Microbiology and Ecology labs and Dr. Higashi’s Molecular Biology lab; both helped her develop fundamental and advanced lab skills.

During summer 2024, Emily conducted research on the effects of ascorbic acid on ketoreductase activity in radishes. While the idea of conducting research was daunting at first, Emily felt ready due to the guidance she received within the program. The project introduced her to various chromatography techniques and allowed her to present her findings at GMercyU’s annual Undergraduate Research Conference. Dr. Barbieri and Dr. Koyack helped Emily edit the project and her thesis.

My favorite part about GMercyU would have to be the sense of community. At a smaller institution, it feels as if you know everyone. It is especially beneficial for the students as we were able to establish connections with the faculty and staff. While everyone may have a different experience, I know that the education and experience that I received at Gwynedd Mercy University is something that is beyond comparable to other institutions. 

Life on Campus

On campus, Emily served as Treasurer of the Student Association of Science (SAS), helping to host events like Lab Coat Decorating Day, a stargazing day, and a UV-sensitive bracelet-making event during the solar eclipse. Her primary responsibility, however, was to maintain the yearly budget and ensure that the club could host events.

Emily also played on GMercyU’s Softball team. Being a student-athlete helped improve her time management skills. She served as the team’s representative for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), where she helped host food drives, implemented activities for DIII Week, and attended a conference-wide conversation to discuss inter-campus engagement opportunities. Through SAAC, Emily volunteered at Neumann University’s National Girls and Women in Sports Day.

Post-Graduation Plans

Emily graduated from GMercyU in May 2025 with her bachelor’s degree in Biology, continuing on at Saint Joseph’s University to begin her Master of Science in Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy. She hopes to pursue a career in research, particularly in the pharmaceutical field, and plans to remain active in the softball community.