Rocelia Tommy

Rocelia Tommy is a junior at Trenton Central High School. After a close family member developed shingles during the pandemic, she became interested in latent viruses and medicine. Through Villanova University’s VESTED program, Rocelia worked alongside undergraduate students to simulate drug delivery using gelatin-based hydrogels. She later participated in her school’s partnership with Celldex Therapeutics, where she learned about antibody production and techniques involving pH adjustment, molecular bonding, and purification. These experiences have contributed to Rocelia’s interest in improving approaches to women’s health. She is also interested in cosmetic chemistry and enjoys makeup and hairstyling. Rocelia hopes to study chemistry and is considering careers in obstetrics and gynecology or cosmetic chemistry.