Widener

Name:

Chanell T. Brown

Class of :

1999

Major:

Chemistry

Hometown:

Yeadon, Pennsylvania

Biography:

Born in Phila., PA. raised in Yeadon, PA (about 30 from hometown).  Went to Aldan elementary, Penn Wood East Junior High, graduated from Upper Darby High School (class of ‛94).  Currently resides in Collingdale, PA.

Why did you choose Widener?

For it’s small class size, close to home, close to major shopping areas and events, liked the faculty.

What have you done since leaving Widener?

Within 6 mos. of graduating from Widener, I moved into my first apartment.  Worked as a contractor for Ciba (3 mos.), PCI pharmaceuticals (5 mos.) and Lyondell (1 year).  Hired by Lyondell as a full time employee; a lab tech in analytical lab, LC/GC group.  Attended Drexel U part-time in 2002 winter quarter.  Spring 2003, purchased my first home and went to Europe (England, France, and Spain).  Got MS degree from Drexel U (job paid 100% tuition).  Graduated Dec ‛04.  Promoted to chemist (technology leader) in analytical LC lab in ‛05.  Promoted to level II chemist 2007 where I continue to work in LC lab.  Main responsibilities, develop methods using LC, CE and GPC analytical techniques, routine testing, plant sample analyses, training, participate on various subcommittees and keep up with latest technology.          

How did Widener help you to achieve your goals?

The course curriculum.  I did not realize at the time but Widener’s curriculum was outstanding.  The information and the material taught in the courses provided a well rounded and diverse background in chemistry (and even outside my field of study). When it was time to go out and interview for a job, I felt confident and prepared to face the world.  Widener also helped me to achieve my goals by hiring the right faculty/staff members.  In my opinion, a course curriculum is only as good as the people teaching.  Because chemistry was my major, I give extra kudos to the chemistry faculty.  I give a major part of my success in life to the chemistry faculty, providing me with the foundation needed and giving me a running start out into the world.

What was your favorite experience at Widener?

The independent study.  I worked with Dr. Van Bramer on rainwater analysis by ion chromatography.  With Dr. Van Bramer’s guidance, I presented the project at the Eastern Analytical Symposium and at Widener’s Science Fair.  That experience was priceless.  After that experience, I knew I wanted to be a chromatographer.  This experience was tied with working as a chemistry tutor (thanks for recommending me to tutor chemistry Dr. Van Bramer) and also working in the biology and chemistry prep rooms.      

What advice would you give to a prospective Widener student?

The Widener Experience is only as good as you make it so don’t be afraid to experience.  If you are unsure and have fears about your life and the goals you would like to achieve or what you would like to do when you group up, Widener is a great place to figure it out.  Even if you know what you want to do, Widener will help guide you to the finish line.  

What advice would you give a current Widener student?

Believe it or not, this is the best time of your life so enjoy it.  Work hard and know that all hard work pays off.  While you are there learn your major but diversify your knowledge to help diversify your skills.  An employer likes someone who knows what they know but can wear multiple hats and play multiple positions.    

What was your favorite classroom project?

The independent study described in the above question (What was your favorite experience at Widener?).