My name is Kaylen Karnes. I will graduate in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a concentration in DNA and disease. After graduating, before I begin my professional career, I plan to attend grad school for at least two years, maybe more, to obtain my Master’s degree. I came here from Kent Island, Maryland and am a participant of the Cormier Honors College and the Life STEM program. In addition to academics, I am also involved athletically being on the Longwood lacrosse team.

I verbally committed to play lacrosse for Longwood in my sophomore year of high school and ever since my love for Longwood has grown! Once I stepped foot on campus and learned about the tightknit community here, I knew that this was the college for me. Factors that influenced my decision to attend here were the class size ratio, the positive professor evaluations, it being located not too far or close to home, and much, much more!

The Longwood lacrosse freshman after passing the ball around on the lawn in front of Sharp Hall.

I ended my freshman year of college with a 3.7 GPA and made the Dean’s List for both the fall and spring semesters. I would like to be able to maintain a minimum of a 3.5 GPA for the remainder of my college career.