What first got you interested in your field of choice?

After completing the Bioprocessing concentration with the MBS program, I became more curious about the unique challenge areas in the Bioprocessing industry (e.g., therapeutic proteins, vaccines, food replacements) and what I could bring to the table.

What type of obstacles have you had to overcome on the road to getting your education?

I found my undergraduate academic experience to be grueling. I frequently failed quizzes, exams, and classes that I needed to fulfill the pre-medical track, without ever sufficiently understanding how to improve. No amount of late nights, office hours, tutoring, or study groups would help me enough to perform highly when it counted. As a result, my self-worth suffered, giving rise to unhealthy habits such as excessive napping, eating too little, eating too much, feelings of jealousy and resentment, skipped classes, and overall self-sabotage. After graduating, I consciously unlearned a lot of the myths I allowed myself to accept in the first place, especially the myth that my grades were a reflection of my worth, intelligence, and identity. I now very much appreciate the moments where I am proven wrong, as it provides me the opportunity to change and grow my mind.

How did you know that KGI was the right school for you?

Before life at KGI, my idea of careers in the life sciences and medicine was quite narrow and limited. After just one week at KGI, I became excited about the highly diverse ways companies and people could help improve patient outcomes (e.g., quality of life, public perception of the health industry). It is apparent that the faculty and students at KGI wish to see and help one another succeed, and I am very grateful to be in such an environment.

Why did you want to become an Admissions Ambassador?

This program is a fantastic resource for both current students, who are eager to share their practical knowledge and words of wisdom with others, and for incoming students, who are coming to KGI with an impartial mindset and first-year nerves about what to expect as new KGI students. I love listening to other students speak about their personal and academic backgrounds and sharing any advice that might be useful. I look forward to the opportunities the Ambassador program will provide to guide students to become independent, collaborative, and to advocate for themselves.

What is one fun and interesting fact about you?

If I wasn't pursuing a career in the life sciences and medicine, I would love to pursue a career in construction or floral design.