Major: PhD Pathobiology (Masters: Immunology of Aging, Undergrad: Molecular and Cellular Biology emphasis in Bioethics)

My journey through science and graduate school has been a mix of incredible adventures and humbling failures. Just like in science, where there are countless paths to discover the same outcome, my journey is just one of many, and I’m excited to share my story with fellow grad students to support them on their own unique path. As the first in my family to pursue a terminal degree, I initially struggled to fully understand what the experience would entail and connect with the graduate community. I hope to use this position to support and empower others, whether they are deep in their studies or are exploring the idea of graduate school.

Honestly... not sure! I love science and working at the bench is the highlight of my time each week so a job that has that is a priority. In addition, teaching and mentoring has been a passion of mine since high school so my career goals will include that. I am thinking along the lines of a professor who is a staff scientist in an academic lab but honestly changes every other day.

I spend and free time outdoors and some of my favorite hobbies include rock climbing, cliff jumping, and hiking to anywhere that has water. In the city, I am currently trying to find the best Chai in Seattle, love to cook, and am testing out the waters on booktok.

My first quarter in graduate school at UW I struggled adjusting to the fast pace of the quarter system, juggling expectations in class and lab, was experiencing a family crisis, and had not yet found my community. All of these factors contributed to a negative headspace and I was facing issues of anxiety and imposter syndrome. Very gratefully a peer recommended I sought help on campus through the lets talk program and I was able to seek help and eventually found my community. I am very grateful that someone was able to help me find the resources I needed and hope to be able to use this position to help the next person.