Lara Kirkby: Outstanding Graduating International Student

Lara Kirkby of Adelaide, South Australia, is the Outstanding Graduating International Student in the College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences. A December 2024 graduate, Kirkby majored in biochemistry, researched in the Maginnis Lab and participated on the UMaine Women’s Soccer Team, through which she competed in and won two championships. After earning her bachelor’s degree a semester early, she joined the Adelaide United professional soccer team and is studying for medical school entrance exams. 

Why did you choose to come to UMaine?

I chose UMaine for its strong academic reputation, research opportunities and competitive soccer environment. The university offered a place where I could thrive in both academics and athletics, and I was excited by the opportunity to contribute to a successful soccer team. UMaine provided a supportive community that allowed me to grow and excel in my major while continuing my passion for soccer.

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?

I worked as an undergraduate researcher in the Maginnis Virology Lab, focusing on JC and BK polyomaviruses. This experience helped me develop essential research skills, including data analysis and laboratory techniques, while contributing to published work. It has prepared me for future opportunities in biochemistry by deepening my understanding of virology and enhancing my ability to conduct independent research and problem-solving.

Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new?

I’ve been fortunate to be supported and inspired by several students during my time at UMaine. Sophie Craig, a Ph.D. candidate in the lab, taught me new techniques and was a constant source of guidance, helping me navigate complex research tasks. My lab peer Sydney Brown also played a key role in supporting me, both by teaching me valuable lab skills and cheering me on at soccer games, reminding me of the importance of balancing academics and athletics. Their encouragement and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping my research journey. 

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at UMaine better, and if so, how?

I have been incredibly fortunate to collaborate with associate professor Melissa Maginnis, whose mentorship truly made my time at UMaine exceptional. Melissa’s reputation for combining groundbreaking virology research with outstanding student support drew me to the university, and she far exceeded my expectations. From the moment I joined her lab, she created an environment where I was challenged to excel while feeling fully supported, encouraging me to think critically, approach science with curiosity, and embrace challenges with confidence. Her mentorship not only shaped my academic growth but also transformed my perspective on collaboration and perseverance, making my time at UMaine one of the most formative experiences of my life.

What has coming to UMaine enabled you to explore beyond academics?

Coming to UMaine has allowed me to reconnect with my love for soccer as a member of the Division I Women’s Soccer Team, leading to two back-to-back championships. It has provided me the opportunity to grow as both an athlete and a leader, while building lifelong friendships and learning the value of teamwork and perseverance.

What experiences have you had at UMaine that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?

At UMaine, I’ve seen the ingenuity of Mainers through the collaborative spirit in research, where faculty and students work together to tackle complex challenges, often pushing the boundaries of innovation. Additionally, the community’s unwavering support for athletics, from packed games to passionate encouragement, demonstrates the pride and unity that Mainers bring to every aspect of life.

Did you have an experience at UMaine that shaped or changed how you see the world?

My research in the Maginnis Virology Lab at UMaine changed how I see the world by showing me the critical role scientific research plays in addressing global health issues. Along with my classwork, where I was constantly inspired by passionate professors in my upper-division biochemistry courses, I had the privilege of learning from strong female teachers who demonstrated how to push boundaries in both academia and research. These experiences taught me the value of perseverance, innovation and the impact of education in shaping the future.

Describe UMaine in one word and explain.

Empowering. 

UMaine is empowering because it provides resources, support, and opportunities for students to reach their full potential. The university actively uplifts female students by fostering an environment of leadership, mentorship and gender equality, ensuring women are encouraged to thrive academically and professionally.

What’s on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?

I graduated with a degree in biochemistry last December in just 3.5 years and am currently playing professional soccer for Adelaide United. I plan to move to Germany mid-year to continue my soccer career while studying for the MCAT and GAMSAT exams for medical school in both the U.S and Australia.

Contact: Marcus Wolf, 207.581.3721; marcus.wolf@maine.edu