Annika is a volunteer who has found a unique way to connect her interest in science with valuable, hands-on experience in the Hennepin Healthcare histology lab.
She is a senior at the University of Minnesota studying biology and pharmacology and plans to pursue a career in biomedical research. In addition to volunteering at Hennepin Healthcare, she works in an applications engineering lab at 3M’s global headquarters, petsits, and is also a teaching assistant at her university.
After completing her required Welcome Services shifts, she became the first volunteer in about five years to join the histology lab, something she didn’t realize would make her role so unique. “I think it was a new adjustment for everyone,” she laughed. “But everyone was really excited to have a volunteer again."
Now, Annika works directly under Dr. Zeljko Dvanajscak (Dr. Z), helping train AI algorithms used in clinical and digital pathology. These algorithms teach computers how to distinguish tissue from background when scanning slides, improving speed and accuracy for histology staff. “When I started, the algorithms were still in early stages,” she explained. “Now, they’re much more efficient. It’s been really rewarding to help improve that process.”
Her experience has helped connect what she studies in textbooks to how science is applied in real-world medical settings. “I get to see what I’m learning in class actually being used here,” she said. “It’s exciting to see how everything connects.”
Volunteering in the lab has also encouraged her passion for biomedical research and inspired new interests. “I’ve become more interested in pathology and working in clinical labs that study real patient cases,” she shared. “It’s made me certain that I want to go to grad school for biomedicine.”
Annika said it’s the sense of purpose she feels each time she’s in the lab that keeps her coming back each week. Working alongside Dr. Z and the histology team has deepened her interest in pathology and strengthened her motivation to keep learning. “Being here reminds me why I’m studying, because it’s all for patients and for people.”
Outside of volunteering and school, Annika enjoys art, animals, and horseback riding. She grew up in Minneapolis, not far from the hospital, and still lives nearby with her family and three cats. “I’ve always loved science, but I also love creating things,” she said. “Art is my outlet. I draw, paint, and scrapbook whenever I can.”
As she looks toward graduation this spring, Annika says her year at Hennepin Healthcare has been a defining part of her journey. “It’s been incredibly fulfilling,” she shared. “Every time I’m here, I’m reminded of what I want to do and why I want to do it.”
