About
I chose to pursue a PhD because I want to become a leader in solving global health challenges through research. As a disease ecology researcher, I am at the forefront of discovery in a highly collaborative, challenging, and quickly evolving field that is vital to human and animal health in our rapidly changing world.
I have always been interested in science education, and being a member of this research team has provided rich opportunities for outreach. While doing fieldwork in South Africa, I was able to collaborate with a local nonprofit to design and teach a science leadership camp for students from a nearby rural school district. Thanks to incredibly supportive labmates and collaborators, the camp was a great experience for participants and for everyone else who was involved. Since returning to the U.S., I've had the opportunity to mentor minority high school students in the lab during OSU's annual Summer Veterinary Experience.
I plan to pursue a career with a nonprofit or agency where I can contribute to solving conservation and health problems through research, and continue to engage with students through outreach initiatives.
Joined
July 2018