Tell us about an experience you’ve had outside of class (an internship, research project, publication, etc.).

Because cancer is not a single disease, our approach to treatment cannot be “one size fits all.” I worked this past summer at a boutique life science consulting firm where I had the opportunity to work on several projects – my 3 main ones were a gene therapy project, a large private equity due diligence, and an immuno-oncology project. From my work this summer, I saw that a lot of the future lies in novel, biologically rational combinations based on unique tumor characteristics. I wanted to continue this research outside of traditional KGI academics, so I have been working on an oncology paper with the guidance of Professor Casper and Dr. Phillips. We hope to get it published in the 2019 year. I am also sourcing luminaries in the space for primary research. I have been fortunate enough to speak with a variety of leaders who range from CEO/President of Tmunity to Principal Scientist at Allogene Therapeutics, to speak about the future of creating smarter T cells to overcome some of the current challenges. I am also president of KGI Consulting Club, a graduate assistant for KGI Corporate Partnerships, an active volunteer for American Cancer Society, a routinely commissioned muralist, and I am working at Accenture in Manhattan Beach when I graduate in May 2019.

What's one thing at KGI that no student should miss or what advice do you have for incoming students?

This Louis Pasteur quote is for all those first year students out there: "Fortune favors the prepared mind." Try to put yourself in good networking situations, try hard in class, but most importantly try to have a smile on your face and a positive attitude. The key to quality of life throughout rigorous academics is having variety, luck, and purpose. Having a positive attitude makes people more inclined to overcome obstacles and create meaningful relationships, and there are endless benefits to that.

Where is your favorite spot at KGI or in Claremont and why?

Augie's Coffee House. It is a great place to study and read. They also have hot latte with oak milk which Mihana Alden made me try and now I get it all the time.