From Bow High to Biotech: Katrina Wells’ Journey

When Katrina Wells ’19 graduated from Bow High School in 2016, she didn’t imagine her future would involve shaping teh next generation of biotechnology and regenerative medicine.

Her path was anything but linear. She started at the University of Vermont, where she explored athletic training, civil engineering, and molecular genetics before finding her true calling in biotechnology and ultimately making a decision that would define her career: transferring to UNH Manchester.

Once at UNH Manchester, Katrina didn’t just find her place; she thrived. She became part of the Millyard Scholars Program, earned recognition as a Presidential Scholar, and received the Biotechnology Program Book Award. These achievements reflected not only her academic dedication but also the opportunities UNH Manchester provided to connect with industry and build a strong foundation for her future.

Finding the Right Fit

For Katrina, location mattered, but so did prospect. “I chose to transfer from the University of Vermont to UNH Manchester primarily for UNH Manchester’s convenient location,” says Katrina. “It’s both close to home and well-positioned in the advanced technologies corridor that runs throughout the Greater Boston region.”

That strategic location became even more appealing when she learned about the Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute (ARMI) opening just steps from campus.

ARMI and a Career Launchpad

ARMI,a Manufacturing Innovation Institute funded by the Department of Defense,focuses on developing and scaling up manufacturing processes for engineered tissues and cell-based therapies. Katrina’s involvement with ARMI began with an internship, which quickly evolved into a full-time position.

“My internship at ARMI was a game-changer,” Katrina explains. “It allowed me to apply what I was learning in the classroom to real-world challenges in the field of regenerative medicine. I was immediately contributing to projects that had the potential to impact lives.”

Today, Katrina is a Research and Advancement Associate at ARMI, where she focuses on process development for cell-based therapies. Her work involves optimizing manufacturing processes to ensure the consistent production of high-quality cells for therapeutic applications.

The UNH Manchester difference

Katrina credits UNH Manchester with providing her with the skills and experiences necesary to succeed at ARMI. She highlights the program’s emphasis on hands-on learning and its close ties to industry.

“The biotechnology program at UNH Manchester is incredibly practical,” she says. “We weren’t just learning theory; we were spending time in the lab, developing technical skills, and working on projects that mirrored what we would encounter in the industry.”

She also emphasizes the importance of the faculty’s mentorship and guidance. “The professors at UNH Manchester are truly invested in their students’ success. They went above and beyond to help me explore my interests and prepare for my career.”

Key Takeaways

• Location Matters: Proximity to industry hubs like the Greater Boston area provides valuable opportunities.
• Hands-on Experience is Crucial: Practical lab work and industry projects prepare students for real-world challenges.
• Mentorship Makes a Difference: Supportive faculty can guide students and help them achieve their goals.
• Transferring Can be a positive step: Finding the right fit, even if it means changing schools, can lead to greater success.

Published: 2025/11/24 21:42:20