Our students are given a solid foundation that prepares them to compete nationally. This was the case when students from the physics department recently accompanied Dr. Horace Crogman to a National Conference. One of our student Robert Walker, President of the Biophysics Club, brought national recognition to La Sierra University for his academic achievement. On February 11-15, 2009 in Nashville, TN, this La Sierra University biophysics student, receive the Harry L. Morrison Scholarship for his academic performance here at La Sierra and his involve in summer research. This is a very competitive scholarship proving that we care for our growth and development of our students.  Thus if you want to be apart of something big, fun and great at the same time come to the physics.

Walker in his summer studied of The Effect of DHA on Spinal Cord Myelin after Spinal Cord Injury.  His research was conducted through the Undergraduate Training Program at Loma Linda University’s Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine. Principle Investigator, Dr. Marino DeLeon, and Postdoctoral Mentor, Dr. Johnny D. Figueroa, conducted this scientific research with Walker. The project investigated the effects of the omega-3-fatty acid DHA in myelin loss and nerve conductance after traumatic spinal cord injury in adult rats. Walker took part in preparation of spinal cord tissue, immunostaining, imaging analysis, and electrophysiological data presentation. The findings were presented in the 2008 8th Annual LLU Research Symposium and the 2009 NSBP/NSHP Conference.
 “When they called my name I really could not believe it. When is heard ‘Robert Walker’ my heart stopped. I was scared and excited at the same time. When I stood up to receive my award everyone turned to look at me and people started taking pictures. There was a blast of loud music and a bright spotlight was focused on me,” said Walker.

Mr. Walker is quite a remarkable student. As president of the club he has gotten our students quite involve in the campus activities. His leadership has brought about cohesiveness with the group which motivates the club members to perform academically while being active. His interest involves cycling running, playing tennis, music and even more remarkable Walker is a apart of the University Wind Ensemble group where he plays the clarinet. Walker have achieve a balance between academic, involvement in his community and his social life the keeps him in the top of the class. He plans to attend medical school in hopes to achieve a dual MD/PhD degree. “I still have a long way to go as far as my education is concerned, but I think this is God’s way of affirming to me that I am on the right path,” said Walker.