Payton Gelande
Payton Gelande
Class Year
’27
Hometown
Port Byron, Illinois
Major(s)
Chemistry
Payton Gelande ’27 embraced his chemistry major with determination, eager to make the most of his college experience at Carthage. He seized every opportunity, from working as a chemistry lab assistant to participating in the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience program — experiences that have helped him thrive academically and shape a promising future. A recipient of the Lincoln Presidential Scholarship, Payton is grateful to attend Carthage without financial burden. “[The scholarship] has impacted me by relieving me of some financial stress and has prepared me for academic success,” he explains.
Outside the classroom, Payton enjoys life in Kenosha, especially its diverse local restaurants and central location between two major cities. “My favorite thing about living in Kenosha is the proximity to both Milwaukee and Chicago! There have been multiple times that friends and I have gone up to Milwaukee for a couple hours to go to various record stores, museums, and events,” he says. “Since Chicago is close, Kenosha has a train to Chicago and back, which allows for the possibility of a day trip there.”
See what students love about Kenosha
Why Carthage?
“I chose Carthage because of the small class sizes. Knowing I would be majoring in chemistry, I wanted hands-on learning with an attentive professor.”
Favorite class
“Application of Fermentation was my favorite class at Carthage! The class covers the history of beer, different types of beer, how to make beer, and much more. We also went into some light brewing chemistry, which opened my eyes to possible new jobs and opportunities. The class started right away with my group and me brewing our first batch of beer. Halfway through the term, we got to take a tour of the Miller Brewing Company in Milwaukee! The final project was creating and designing our own beer, which was fun and collaborative to do as a class.”
Campus involvement
“I am the co-president of the Merely Players Improv Comedy group on campus. We perform for the Carthage community as well as the Kenosha community. In the past, we have gone to places such as Milwaukee to perform, and recently, we put on a show for a hospital. We try to offer a free show every month on campus and host auditions every semester. Auditions are my favorite part of the year because I get to see what everyone brings to the table!”
Unique opportunities
“I participated in the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) program with Professor Kevin Morris. I researched the NMR analysis of micelle formation by a phenylalanine-based biosurfactant. My lab partner and I spent the summer gaining valuable skills, such as learning how to use new instruments, working in a lab setting, and analyzing different types of data. The SURE program also gives me the opportunity to present my research multiple times throughout the rest of my time at Carthage.”
Internships or campus employment
“I was a chemistry lab assistant for a few semesters. The job had me working in certain lab sections, helping the professor by setting up experiments, and addressing any student questions or needs while the experiment was going on. The position allowed me to connect with students, faculty, and lab assistants, and it helped me have a better understanding of the lab environment.”
Favorite spot on campus
“The Campbell Student Union is my favorite spot on campus. I enjoy the variety of socializing areas and all of the food choices to pick from. I spend a lot of time in this building because my improv group often meets in the auditorium on the second floor.”
Advice for other students in your major?
“My advice is to go to the professors’ offices and ask questions! This helps you understand the material better and build a closer relationship with your professor.”