Why did you choose the Genetics PhD program at A&M?

I chose the genetics program here at A&M because of the interdisciplinary aspect. I knew I wanted to do microbial genetics but there are PIs across several specialties that all do this. I wanted the opportunity to explore each field before choosing my final lab.

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

For as long as I can remember, there has always been a new disease in the news plaguing the earth. From Ebola to Zika and now to COVID-19, new pathogenic bacteria and viruses are constantly being discovered. I have always been interested in each new case and constantly keeping up with the science discoveries and spread. I am fascinated with the new discoveries being made. I have always been driven to find out how things work and the mechanisms in which different species operate. Each disease has a new way of infecting a host and defending itself against all odds. Learning how new species and already known species are evolving to infect humans is what I want to be able to study.

Fun Facts:

What would be your dream job after graduation from the program?

My ultimate dream job would be studying and swimming with sea turtles in Hawaii, but more realistically I would like to study infectious diseases.

What is your favorite thing about life in College Station?

My favorite thing about College Station is the community I have here. I have several friends I get together with on the weekends for a wine or margarita night.

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

I have a borderdoodle named Axel who constantly keeps me on my toes! He always wants to be outside, so we go hiking and to dog parks all the time.