Chippewa Valley Times

In a recent announcement, Devin Sobottka, a third-year student at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, has been named one of the recipients of the esteemed Goldwater Scholarship for 2024. The scholarship, presented by the Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation, honors college students with a passion for research in natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering. Sobottka's achievement stands out as he is one of only six students chosen from a Universities of Wisconsin campus this year.

Dr. Michael Carney, the interim provost, commended Sobottka's potential, stating, "This prestigious award recognizes a student’s potential for becoming a future research leader in the United States." Sobottka, who is majoring in chemistry with a biochemistry emphasis, expressed his gratitude for the opportunities the scholarship may bring, saying, "It’s an honor to receive the Goldwater Scholarship, which may help open the door for more opportunities and ways I can achieve my educational and career goals."

Sobottka credited UW-Eau Claire for providing him with valuable research opportunities, mentioning, "The most important thing UW-Eau Claire has done for me has been providing me with a wonderful research mentor and the ability to conduct undergraduate research." He added, "I'm learning skills that would be a lot harder to obtain somewhere else."

Dr. Tyler Doyon, Sobottka's faculty research mentor, praised Sobottka's dedication and scientific curiosity, highlighting his significant contributions to their research. Doyon also acknowledged Sobottka's role as a mentor to fellow students, saying, "He is a fantastic mentor to other students through tutoring and involvement in department activities."

Looking ahead, Doyon expressed excitement for Sobottka's future, noting that his research experience at UW-Eau Claire has prepared him for success in graduate school, where he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in chemistry. The Goldwater Scholarship, established in honor of Senator Barry Goldwater, aims to support students who demonstrate exceptional promise in becoming the nation's next generation of research leaders in natural sciences, engineering, and mathematics.

Sobottka's journey from working in warehouses to pursuing his passion for chemistry serves as an inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of education and dedication in achieving academic excellence and research success.