Bachelor of Science in chemistry, minor in Computer Science
Convocation Award recipient: John C. Bailar Award for excellence in undergraduate research
Undergraduate research? I was an undergraduate researcher in the (Scott) Silverman Lab, starting the second semester of my freshman year. Our lab uses biochemistry and chemistry techniques to find DNAzymes. This experience has taught me how to think as a researcher, from designing small experiments to entire projects. In addition, I was able to mentor new students who joined the lab after me and help them get started with their own projects in a similar manner to how my mentors helped me when I first begun, which was a rewarding experience.
Future plans? I am pursuing a PhD in physical chemistry at the University of Chicago.
Activities and organizations? In addition to undergraduate research, I was also involved in the school's chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS) as Outreach Chair, and Brain Matters, a neuroscience journal, as President.
Favorite class and why? I really enjoyed my physical chemistry classes and labs! It is hard for me to choose from all of them, but I especially liked Physical Chemistry II (Stat Mech) because it showed me how creative you can be with math!
What will you miss most about Illinois? I will miss my lab members, both the undergraduate and graduate students! My lab is a tight-knit community because of its collaborative nature, and I am appreciative of how we are not only close as researchers but as friends!
Why Illinois? Because of its research opportunities in the Department of Chemistry. I believe that Illinois has many labs with great mentorship where students can develop as scientists.