Jennefer Maldonado ’20, MS ’22’s journey from Adelphi University to a career at Brookhaven National Lab (BNL) exemplifies the transformative power of mentorship and underscores her ongoing commitment to her personal and professional growth.
Member of Adelphi University’s 10 Under 10
College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Communications
Senior Application Analyst, Brookhaven National Laboratory
Maldonado’s professional path began to take shape during her sophomore year. Encouraged by David Biersach, who worked at BNL, Maldonado applied for the organization’s Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship program. After two internships focused on machine learning, Maldonado transitioned to a part-time role at BNL while pursuing her master’s degree at Adelphi. This role evolved into a full-time position in the Collider-Accelerator Department, where she develops applications, upgrades software, conducts machine learning research and supports the development of the Electron-Ion Collider.
Maldonado chose Adelphi University for its welcoming environment and personalized approach. “I wanted to have an opportunity to connect with my classmates and professors, so the small class size was also a bonus,” she explained, noting that the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science made a positive impression on her as did the strong sense of community.
Salvatore Petrilli, EdD, associate dean for academic operations and general education, became a pivotal mentor for Maldonado. His belief in her potential and his engaging teaching style, particularly in Abstract Algebra, were instrumental in her development. “Dr. Petrilli pushed me to my full potential by believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself,” she noted.
As president-elect of the Brookhaven Women In Science, Maldonado organizes networking and social events for women in STEM fields across Long Island. Additionally, she volunteers with BNL’s Office of Educational Programs, engaging K–12 students through science demonstrations and tours. “The goal is to help strengthen the pipeline of students choosing STEM-focused careers,” she said.
She also supports the United Way of Long Island by promoting scholarships for students with financial need. “I was lucky enough to receive this scholarship in 2016,” she added. “Now I get to share my story with other students in need in hopes they will apply.”
Maldonado says one of her most significant achievements is mentoring a summer student. “I believe that whatever opportunity you are given, you must find a way to give back to it,” she said.
Looking back, she credits Adelphi for getting her to where she is today: “Adelphi changed my life by providing me with the mentorship I needed to transform my confidence and grow my career. I am thankful for all the professors and staff who cared about my success and future.”