Mariana – Master's student in Exact Sciences

Meet Mariana Arango Rodriguez, a current master’s student at the University of Turku and an UTU ambassador 2026-2027!

I am Mariana Arango Rodriguez from Colombia. I am first-year master’s student in exact sciences: chemistry of drug development track at University of Turku.

My journey started with my bachelor’s degree in bioengineering, which I completed in 2025. During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to participate in research projects involving the morphological and molecular characterization of parasitic fungi in native tree species. These experiences helped me develop practical laboratory skills and discover how much I enjoy doing research. I became interested in bioprospecting. Specially, how fungi, plants and animals can be studied to look for potential pharmacologically active compounds. I developed an interest in bioinformatics and molecular docking. I find fascinating how small structures like drug molecules can interact with macromolecules like proteins and cause a huge impact on their biological functions.

That is why the master’s in chemistry of drug development at UTU was the perfect opportunity to continue exploring this interest and further develop skills in analysis techniques, drug screening and quantification. One of the things I value the most about studying at UTU is their research-oriented approach to teaching; the program offers lots of practical laboratory work and research opportunities. Working and studying with people from diverse academic backgrounds allows me to exchange ideas, get new perspectives and learn new ways to approach science research, which has been essential for my personal and academic growth.

I look forward to connecting from people from around the world, creating new memories and sharing my experience here in Turku!

Mariana's study experience:

How is your study experience at UTU and what services/aspects have influenced that the most?

Studying at UTU for the past month has been a wonderful experience. Not only have I been able to challenge myself academically, but I have also had the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and gain new perspectives that contribute to my personal development. One of the things I enjoy most is the flexibility to design my own study plan, allowing me to focus on my interests and shape my career goals. I also highly value the experience of joining a student union, the students are always ready to support each other and help answer any questions.

To whom would you recommend your programme to?

I would recommend this programme to anyone interested in getting a deeper understanding in chemistry, specially regarding drug production, identification and targeting.

What is your background and how did you end up choosing your programme?

My academic background is on bioengineering. My bachelor’s degree focused on understanding microorganisms, their relationship with people and the environment and possible industrial applications. As well as understanding the cell, its organelles, their functions, main metabolic routes and some molecular techniques to improve metabolite production or control a disease. It was during my bachelor’s that I realized that I was passionate about the possibility of using microorganisms as new drug molecules, learning how they interact with proteins and how can they be modeled. Since my degree was mostly focused on biology, I wanted to reinforce my knowledge in chemistry and learn about the analytical techniques that are used in drug discovery. That is why the master program on chemistry of drug development seemed like the step in the right direction in the path of getting a holistic understanding of drug discovery.

What have you found special in the study experience at UTU?

I really enjoy having the possibility to completely personalize my study plan and take courses from other departments, or even from other universities. If I am interested in learning something, there is always an additional course that I can take. Having that much flexibility and opportunities to customize my learning experience has been great, because it allows me to better prepare myself for the constantly developing pharmaceutical and research industries.

What are your future career plans?

I would like to work as a researcher or developer in biotechnological companies or in the medical industry, discovering new compounds or molecules would be a dream come true. However, I would also like to pursue a PHD to further my education.

How do you balance your studies during your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy doing crocheting and cross-stitching, and I am currently learning how to knit. I am a huge horror fan, so I enjoy reading horror books, listening to scary podcast and watching movies. I also like spending time with friends, going out, and exploring new places. Recently I have been visiting Turku library, they have lots of different clubs and activities and it is the perfect place to read or crochet for a while.