In 2017, Fiona Kaster (formerly Herbert) bid farewell to ERA and embarked on her journey at the University of Minnesota, Morris. Majoring in biology, she discovered that her foundation at ERA played a pivotal role in shaping her college experience.
Equipped with a solid grasp of essay writing and early biology concepts, the latter for which she credits the guidance of Mr. Meier, her journey unfolded. Choosing a small college deliberately echoed the intimate setting of ERA, enabling a balance of scientific pursuits and creative expression—a distinctive feature cherished during her time at ERA.
Fiona shared, “ERA impacted my college experience a lot, especially because I intentionally chose a small college because of what I liked about ERA. I was also able to balance my science and creative sides in college just like I got to do at ERA, which was extremely important to me. I even met my partner through improv, which I never would have done if not for ERA’s improv club.”
After college, Fiona delved into the intricacies of xenotransplant immunology at the University of Minnesota Medical School, Department of Surgery. Specializing in cell culture, her work involved cultivating non-human primate bone marrow cells, contributing to the study of transplanting non-human organs into humans. The culmination of two years of dedication resulted in a breakthrough, marking a significant milestone in her professional journey.
Though she enjoyed her work for the U of M, Fiona’s career journey continued with a shift to the biotechnology sector, where she has found fulfillment as a Quality Associate for cell culture, where she ensures the cultures produced are the highest quality possible for use in research. The intricate and detail-oriented nature of her work allowed her to leverage skills in new and exciting ways, adding another layer to her evolving career path.
Beyond the realm of work, Fiona has a diverse set of interests. A sci-fi enthusiast, she authored a manuscript for a novel and is currently delving into the creation of another. Her passion for wildlife biology and native turtle conservation manifested through volunteer work with the Minnesota Herpetological Society and ongoing contributions at the Como Zoo.
Looking ahead, she envisions a future that embraces a multitude of passions. Fiona is contemplating graduate school, but the specifics remain uncertain, given her various interests. She’s hoping to publish her novels and participate in theater, where she is looking to navigate a path back to the stage—an ambition momentarily paused by the challenges of the pandemic.