Cochise Newsroom

Auttum Smith, a Cochise College student, has been selected for the 2025 American Cancer Society Undergraduate Summer Internship Program. 

 

The 10-week paid internship will give Smith the opportunity to work alongside top cancer researchers at the University of Arizona in Tucson. With aspirations of becoming a physician scientist, she will receive one-on-one mentorship, conduct hands on laboratory research, and explore real-world applications in cancer science and treatment. She will also receive a $5000 stipend upon completion of the program, which runs from May 27 to August 4, 2025. 

 

Originally from North Carolina, Smith moved to Cochise County at six years old and later graduated from Benson High School. While her interest in medicine began in high school, her time at Cochise College developed a deeper interest in research and medicine. Taking part in the college’s undergraduate research class gave her the chance to explore the field of ethnobotany - the study of the relationship between people and plants, which sparked her curiosity about how plants can contribute to medicinal treatments. 

 

“This internship is a huge step toward my goal of making a difference through both science and patient care,” Smith said. “I’m especially excited to learn specialized research techniques, gain hands-on experience in the lab, and connect with mentors who can help guide my path forward.”

 

Her long-term goal is to become a physician-scientist through the Medical Scientist Training Program, a competitive program that combines medical education with doctoral research. She currently holds three healthcare certificates - medical assistant, EKG technician and phlebotomy. 

 

“We are thrilled to welcome Auttum to the 2025 USIP cohort,” wrote Megan McKay, Program Manager in the internship acceptance letter. “She joins a group of exceptional students from across the country who are passionate about scientific discovery and committed to advancing cancer research.”

 

Kari Durham, Science Department Chair and Biology instructor at Cochise College, congratulated Smith on this achievement and said, “I know Auttum has been working hard to learn more about the field of Biotechnology and Cancer research. Her dedication and determination has paid off! We wish her all the best during this exciting journey!"

 

Smith will graduate from Cochise College in May 2025, move to Tucson this summer, and begin her studies at the University of Arizona in the fall. 

To learn more about undergraduate research opportunities at Cochise College, visit www.cochise.edu/.