What’s next for the Class of 2026: Olivia Catalina

“What’s next for the Class of 2026” is a series that features Lafayette grads—where they’re headed, and the mentors, resources, and experiences that inspired their future path. Stay tuned for more stories throughout April and May.

(Photo | JaQuan Alston)

By Maddie Pedone ’26 

Major/minor:

Neuroscience with a biotechnology minor 

Destination/future plans:

Working as a medical assistant and researcher at Orozco Orthopedics in Manahawkin, N.J., during her gap year before attending medical school. 

Involvement on campus: 

Olivia Catalina ’26 has been very busy during her time at Lafayette playing centerfield for the softball team and working as a TA for the Neurobiology Lab for two semesters. Catalina has also been heavily involved in research for the field of neuroscience. 

Outside of her class schedule, Catalina had the opportunity to work in the lab of Lisa Gabel, William C. ’67 and Pamela Rappolt Professor of Neuroscience, on a project titled “Sulforaphane Reduces Repetitive Behaviors and Enhances Social Interaction in Male and Female BTBR Mice,” which focuses on autism spectrum disorder.

“Through this experience, I had the opportunity to present our findings at the Society for Neuroscience Conference in San Diego in November 2025, and we are currently working toward publication,” Catalina says. “This work also led to me being awarded the 2026 William C. Rappolt ’67 and Walter Oechsle ’57 Neuroscience Prize, an honor I am incredibly grateful for.” 

In her spare time, Catalina volunteered weekly with residents with dementia at Gracedale Nursing Home in Nazareth as part of the National Alzheimers Buddies Organization.

The experiences that mattered most:

Playing for the softball team shaped Catalina’s experience at Lafayette as she learned important lessons and built important connections. 

“My experience as a student-athlete has been the most meaningful part of my time at Lafayette,” she says. “It taught me lessons in discipline, resilience, and teamwork that extend far beyond the field. Through softball, I built relationships that will last a lifetime, had the opportunity to travel and compete across the country, and created unforgettable memories.” 

“Being able to play the sport I love at a high level while also pursuing a rigorous academic path toward a career in medicine is something I do not take for granted, and it has shaped both who I am and who I aspire to become.”

How Lafayette shaped your future:

Catalina says the hands-on opportunities and mentorship she found at Lafayette have been a key component that shaped her future. 

“The ability to build meaningful relationships with professors has allowed me to work alongside experts in neuroscience and engage deeply in research,” Catalina says. “Attending conferences like the Society for Neuroscience Conference exposed me to leading-edge work in the field and reinforced my passion for medicine and research. These experiences have helped me build a strong foundation and have prepared me to be a competitive applicant for medical school.”

Why Lafayette?

Catalina believes being able to participate in Division I sports while at a small liberal arts school is what makes Lafayette a unique institution. 

“I chose Lafayette because I wanted both a high-quality education and the opportunity to compete at a high athletic level,” Catalina says. “Balancing a rigorous academic schedule with the demands of collegiate softball has taught me time management, discipline, and perseverance. Additionally, the liberal arts curriculum allowed me to explore areas outside of STEM, which helped me become a more well-rounded and adaptable individual.” 

The people who inspired you along the way:

Catalina explains her mentor and research professor, Lisa Gabel, provided support and unique career opportunities. 

“Dr. Gabel has had the greatest impact on my academic and professional development,” Catalina says. “She has consistently believed in me and provided opportunities that have shaped my path, especially through my involvement in undergraduate research. Her mentorship introduced me to the world of scientific inquiry and helped me realize the impact I want to have in medicine.” 

Kelliner Croushore, her softball coach, has also played a large role in Catalina’s experience at Lafayette. 

“Transitioning from assistant to head coach during my time here, she has transformed the program and has been instrumental in my development as an outfielder,” Catalina says. “As a former outfielder herself, she worked closely with me to refine my skills, and her positive energy and leadership style have had a lasting impact on both me and my team.” 

Advice for future Leopards:

Catalina believes new students should not be afraid to try new things and take advantage of the wide array of opportunities that will be available during their four years. 

“Try new things, get involved, and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. The relationships you build here will last a lifetime, and the experiences you gain will shape who you become.” 

“Lafayette has had a profound impact on my growth, both personally and professionally, and I know those lessons will carry forward into my future career as a physician.”