Kayla Stephensen

When and how did you realize that you wanted to study Genetics & Genomics?

My mom was adopted from South Korea as a baby and so half of my genetics has always been a mystery. I have longed to understand how things are passed from one generation to another.

Why did you choose the Genetics & Genomics Ph.D. program at A&M?

The A is for agriculture! A&M’s agriculture program is internationally renowned and the network is strong.

If you were free to choose anything, what research question/topic would you like to address for your graduate studies?

Drought and heat tolerance in orphaned or understudied crops.

Fun Facts:

• Do you have any hidden talents?

I can blow a bubble inside of a bubble with the right chewing gum.

• Do you have any pets? If so, please tell us about them.

I had two labrador’s growing up, both now passed on. One was a cuddly half pit bull half black lab, and the other was a hyper half weimaraner, half chocolate lab.

• Favorite place you have travelled to:

Italy! I lived there for 18 months and never tired of gelato and speaking Italian.