Wichita State University freshman Kyan Caudillo administers COVID-19 tests and enters
patient data as part of his work at the Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory.Courtesy photo
Beyond the Classroom: Kyan Caudillo
March 15, 2023
By Strategic Communications
Applied learning at Wichita State
At Wichita State, every degree we offer has opportunities for an applied learning
or research experience. As a Shocker, you'll get the chance to work side by side with
established professionals, building contacts, confidence and a strong resume before
graduation.
The Department of Biological Sciences at Wichita State University offers an exciting
educational environment. The faculty are committed to teaching and research. Modern
laboratory and classroom facilities provided a backdrop for meaningful interactions
between faculty and students. Research and internship opportunities exist for graduate
and undergraduate students.
Kyan Caudillo is a biology major at Wichita State University and minoring chemistry.
His experience working at WSU’s Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory will help him as he studies and prepares to work
in the medical field.
More than 5,000 Shockers each year take what they’ve learned in the classroom and
transfer that knowledge into real-world environments. Applied learning — which is
required for every Wichita State student — happens in offices, factories, laboratories,
nonprofits, industries and companies across the globe. Students work side-by-side
with seasoned professionals to ensure that they’re fully prepared to make meaningful
contributions to their employers and their communities when they graduate.
Hometown
Wichita
Major
Biology, minor in chemistry
Year
Freshman
What is your job title, the company you work for, and your duties during your applied
learning experience?
I work at WSU’s Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory. I give people COVID-19 tests, both
saliva and swab. I also enter patient data into the computers.
How long do you expect to work in your current position?
I started working at MDL at the beginning of the school year and currently plan to
remain on staff.
How did you learn about this opportunity?
I learned about this job during a job event on campus and applied later that day.
How is this experience helping you build your resume and prepare you for your career?
This experience is helping me prepare for my career by giving me hands-on testing
with patients, which will be helpful for my intended major/career (pre-medical).
How have your classes and experiences at Wichita State prepared you to succeed in
this applied-learning opportunity?
My chem labs and biology labs deal with some of the technology that we use here, so
that has helped me be better prepared.
What advice would you give other students who are looking for hands-on experiences
in their major while they finish college?
Attend the job fairs, check their emails and reach out to their advisors.
