Fantastic Four: Quartet of RSU Alumni Set Sights on Medical, Biomedical, Veterinary Graduate Programs

Four smiling students in a science lab.

Recent RSU Department of Biology graduates Connor Kluth (from left), Cole Ragsdale, Alyssa Allen, and Miranda Brown will be continuing their education in various graduate programs in the fall 2025 semester.

Four recent RSU biology program graduates will be continuing their studies in medical, biomedical and veterinary graduate programs across the state.

Biology major Miranda Brown and medical molecular biology majors Connor Kluth, Cole Ragsdale and Alyssa Allen have all been accepted into graduate programs to help them pursue their career goals. All four credit RSU for providing them with a solid educational foundation.

“This fall, I am excited to continue my academic journey at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, where I will be pursuing my Ph.D. as a part of their Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences,” said Claremore native Miranda Brown. “In graduate school, I hope to continue to develop strong research skills and contribute meaningfully to the field of biomedical sciences.

“RSU’s small class sizes, supportive atmosphere, and knowledgeable faculty provided me with the opportunity to grow as both a student and researcher, inspiring me to pursue advanced studies in biomedical research,” she said.

Pryor native Cole Ragsdale will be pursuing his doctorate through OU’s Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, during which, he hopes to become a better researcher, be a part of several publications and make meaningful contributions to an increased understanding of biology.

“All of the professors I had the pleasure of learning from at RSU were knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely made a difference in my education,” Ragsdale said. “Even faculty I did not take a class with were always kind, happy to chat, and would help with anything. I am very thankful for my experience at RSU. If I hadn’t chosen to complete my degree here, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to gain the research experience that largely contributed to my graduate school acceptance.”

Sapulpa native Connor Kluth’s continuing studies will be at Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine beginning in August 2025, as he continues his ambition of becoming an anesthesiologist.

“RSU has been a huge part of my journey. Its small classes, encouraging professors, and strong science program gave me the foundation and confidence I needed to take this next step.” Kluth said. “I’m excited to learn more about patient care and pain management, and to grow into a physician who serves others with compassion and excellence.”

Claremore native Alyssa Allen will be attending Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, pursuing her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.

“In graduate school, I hope to assist my fellow DVM students in fostering good connections with mentors that can guide them and support them through their journey into veterinary practice,” Allen said. “My RSU education has greatly influenced my career path as having affordable education, great professors, and being close to good internships has encouraged me on my path to vet school. I would not have gotten the special opportunities I have had through mentorships or classes had I attended any other school.”

Learn more about degree options in RSU’s Department of Biology.