Wanting to make the most of the summer before her senior year, Viterbo University biochemistry major and future physician Emma Schoen sought the advice of science faculty member Chris Mayne. He recommended applying for a A.C.V. Elston III, MD, Summer Research Fellowship at Emplify Health.

Described as “a transformative experience on your path to becoming a clinician, scientist or healthcare professional,” A.C.V. Elston III, MD, Summer Research Fellows join a research team to investigate a clinical topic under the leadership of an experienced researcher, in this case Dr. Darby Oldenburg. Fellowship alumni have presented at regional and national conferences, had their findings published in peer-reviewed journals, and regularly go on to attend prestigious medical and graduate schools.

An excellent student with extensive research experience at Viterbo, Schoen was one of eight chosen for the highly competitive program. So far, the fellowship has been everything for which the Bear Valley native had hoped.

“Within the first week, I realized this experience would significantly enhance my education and profoundly shape the course of my career,” Schoen said. “I’ve felt incredibly supported by Dr. Oldenburg, the other fellows, and the physicians I’ve shadowed—each of whom have offered valuable career and life advice. I’ve also already gained extensive knowledge of laboratory techniques and scientific concepts. Every day, I wake up genuinely excited to head to the lab, attend educational sessions at the hospital, and connect with the other summer fellows. The eight of us have built a great bond—swapping research updates and reminiscing about our undergraduate journeys. I thrive on creating meaningful connections, and everyone I’ve encountered—whether at the Health Science Center or the hospital—has been so open to sharing their career stories and offering valuable insights into both medical school and the world of research.”

Schoen and her team’s research project is entitled “Tracking MHV68 Infection via Fluorescent Proteins.” In scientific terms, she explained the goal is to enhance the utility of Gammaherpesvirus MHV68 as a research tool by genetically targeting neutral loci in the MHV68 genome and inserting fluorescent constructs that will be visible under microscopy, providing valuable insights for other research labs. A neutral locus is a genetic site that can be mutated through the addition of certain promoters, fluorescent proteins, and other regulatory sequences, without altering the function, fitness, or reproductivity of the virus.

“I am eager to deepen my understanding of viral and bacterial genetics while exploring how the scientific community collaborates to address pressing questions about viruses, infections, vaccines, and beyond,” Schoen said. “Practicing lab techniques such as polymerase chain reactions, electrophoresis, and restriction enzyme digestion will prepare me well for the laboratory courses I will take in my final year at Viterbo, while also enhancing the fine motor skills and attention to detail that are essential in medical school. I’ve had the opportunity to witness how Dr. Oldenburg communicates with her collaborator at the National Institute of Health and how they work together to advance the field of medicine from a Gammaherpesvirus perspective, and it has truly inspired me.”

Schoen will graduate from Viterbo in May 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and a minor in Spanish. She plans to take a gap year before medical school, during which she would like to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Emplify Health or UW Health in Madison, ideally in a cardiac ICU unit. She also hopes to continue volunteering at Saint Clare Health Mission in La Crosse, potentially stepping into a leadership role, or seek a similar opportunity with UW Health’s street medicine program serving the unsheltered population.

“Professionally, I’m currently drawn to emergency medicine with a focus on serving rural communities,” Schoen said. “I look forward to the journey ahead in medical school and the chance to explore a broader range of specialties within the healthcare field.”

Originally a nursing major at Viterbo, Schoen credited Viterbo faculty and staff, family, and friends for helping her to discern her true calling, and giving her the confidence to know she can succeed.

“They reminded me that not all paths are linear, and some choices deserve deep contemplation,” she said. “I am glad I chose to commit to becoming a doctor. While the road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, I trust that my faith, friends and family, education from Viterbo, and support from professors will help me overcome anything.”

“My favorite part about Viterbo is the people,” Schoen said. “My mom (Kathleen) attended Viterbo to earn a degree in education and later returned for her master’s degree. Her stories about Viterbo and the La Crosse community inspired me, so I chose to apply. I am grateful I followed my heart here because the connections and memories I have made in just three years will surely last a lifetime.”

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