Graduate Program: Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics
Faculty advisor: Doug Mashek
Where did you get your undergraduate degree?
University of Maryland - Baltimore County
What does your research focus on?
Autophagic breakdown of lipid droplets and general lipid metabolism
Why did you choose the BMBB graduate program?
There were two characteristics of the Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics (BMBB) program that stood out to me. The first was the range of potential faculty to work with. I was unsure of what field I wanted to delve into, so it was essential for me to be able to rotate through labs with vastly different research focuses, which I did! The second was the students and faculty. I could tell that the students were truly happy here, and they genuinely wanted me to join them. Additionally, the faculty members were excited about their research, and eager to collaborate with each other. Overall, the interview weekend showcased a department that genuinely cared about the graduate students and wanted them to succeed.
What are your career aspirations?
I aim to have my own research lab and teach at the collegiate level, encouraging students to be collaborative and to think critically about science. I enjoy teaching and hope that I can share my passion for science with my students and mentor the next generation of burgeoning scientists.
What's your favorite thing about living in the Twin Cities?
Honestly, I love the weather. The cities truly come alive in the warmer months as everyone makes the most of summer, and almost every restaurant and bar has outdoor seating just for that time. Although it can be absolutely frigid in the winter, the sun is usually still shining, so the city doesn’t have that gloomy winter feeling one might expect.