Spring graduate Trevor Kubenik sets sights on doctorate program at Boston College

University of Wisconsin-Superior senior Trevor Kubenik is not just intelligent, but creative, too.

He cleverly uses his knowledge (he will graduate soon with a degree in chemistry and math) in his personal life, as well.

“In addition to my degree, I’ll graduate with certificates in ethical leadership and the science of brewing,” he shared. “Among other things, we’ve learned about the basic processes of brewing beer and all the science involved.”

His talents will no doubt endear him to his new classmates at Boston College, where he will soon begin his Ph.D. program in chemistry.

Why UW-Superior?

Kubenik’s hometown is the small village of Hales Corners, Wisconsin – a suburb of Milwaukee. He explained his decision to attend UW-Superior.

“I chose to come to Superior to explore a new area,” he said. “My very first time up here was during my college tour. I loved the campus immediately; every person I met was helpful and welcoming.”

Kubenik has been deeply dedicated to his studies during his time at UWS, and expects to graduate with a GPA of 3.95.

University Experience

In addition to his studies, Kubenik has remained incredibly active during his time at UW-Superior. He has held a variety of campus jobs, including work as a resident assistant, a grading/teaching assistant, an undergraduate researcher and even a supplemental instructor.

Additionally, he is the student representative for the UW-Superior Alumni Board, and co-president of the Students of Science Club.

“The club is open to anyone with an interest in science,” he shared. “My role as president involves leading meetings, working with the other officers to come up with activities and lab experiments and coordinating field trips and volunteer opportunities.”

Kubenik also conducted five semesters of research during his time at UW-Superior. This includes a study of microplastics in Lake Superior, led by Lorena Rios, and green chemistry research with a focus on “environmentally friendly catalysts that can synthesize pharmaceutical compounds,” with James Lane.

Additionally, the research opportunities offered by UWS have allowed Kubenik to contribute to peer-reviewed literature.

“I have known Trevor for the past three years,” said Lane, professor and chair of the Department of Natural Sciences. “During that time, I think he’s taken every course that I teach: organic chemistry I and II, biochemistry I and II, he’s worked on two research projects with me, and has even taken the brewing science I and II courses. He is very outgoing and energetic, and seems to always keep busy doing something.”

“What really stands out about Trevor is his passion for science and learning new things,” said Lane. “When we’re discussing some topic or cool reaction, he gets wide-eyed and smiles and asks, ‘Can we try that out in the lab?’

“He’s been an enthusiastic lab assistant, tutor and supplemental instructor, and his excitement for science also really shines through when he’s talking about it with his fellow students. With his energy and enthusiasm, I’m confident he will be very successful.”

Future Goals

Kubenik’s next step will be to attend Boston College in the fall of 2023. There, he will enter a five-year program, where he will earn his Ph.D., in chemistry. In this program, the coursework of a Master of Science degree is completed during the first two years.

Career-wise, Kubenik has a few ideas. “I think I’ll work in either industry or academia, in the field of chemistry research,” he said. “I’m glad to have the privilege of keeping my options open.”

Personal goals for Kubenik include buying a house and living what he calls a balanced life. “Right now, I’m all school,” he noted with a chuckle.

Kubenik is grateful for his experience at UWS, and believes he is well-prepared for his future.

“While attending UWS, one of the greatest things has been how many professors I’ve been able to become close with,” he said. “And they all want to see me succeed.”