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What research are you doing? Currently I’m trying to understand the fundamental mechanism of a green catalyst. Others in my group have shown that this catalyst can be used to valorize biofuel byproducts. This kind of research on sustainable topics is why I joined the Joaquín Rodríguez-López lab, but I stay because I love our calm energy.

Undergraduate education: BS in chemistry from Tougaloo College  

What organizations are you involved in at UIUC? I’m the secretary of NOBCChE. While we work as a collective and often share responsibilities, my main role is to take notes from our meetings and to act as a point of contact between the chemistry and engineering departments, our E-board, and general members. If I hadn’t gone to graduate school, I would have worked for a non-profit community building. NOBCChE has allowed me to put my foot where my mouth is; in other words, to prove that I’m committed to making real change for my community.  

Highlight of graduate school so far? Since starting my PhD, I’ve shifted my perspective of learning to a more active approach. Before I would have been paralyzed with planning everything perfectly. Now I feel more confident in my judgment in navigating problems when they occur.

Any hobbies or activities that you enjoy? I’m mostly a homebody, but I’ve started biking since I’ve been at UIUC. My sister even bought me a helmet to fit over my afro. I’m going to decorate it with the random stickers I collect from my time here at UIUC.

Any advice for undergraduates or prospective graduate students? Take breaks often. Personally, I would feel guilty when I do take breaks because I spend them mostly alone resting. But I’ve realized that is literally the point of a break. Don’t do what I did and not take a break for seven months. No matter what it is not worth it. I didn’t even rest between undergrad going to graduate school which in hindsight is just silly. Please be conscious of your stress and rest even when you don’t think you can.