Husky 100

Lux Sit

"Nothing is easy, but nothing is impossible." The roots of this powerful statement elude me, yet its impact has been indelibly etched in my memory. During my first year of college, I stumbled upon these words at a diner I worked at. An unwitting encounter that served as a perfect summary of my prospective college experience. My path to graduation from UW has been anything but straightforward, characterized by both challenging and rewarding circumstances. Although I'm proud of my numerous accomplishments, what truly stands out is the profound self-discovery that has unfolded within and beyond the confines of UW. As an aspiring college professor, I have sought to diligently develop the essential skills for conducting research, mentoring, instructing, and, above all, fostering an inclusive environment for everyone. I carry with me the essence of the mantra that initially sparked my journey – a constant reminder that amidst the complexities of life, the realm of the attainable knows no bounds.

Applying this mantra allowed for my introductory biochemistry class to reshape my collegiate journey. Despite my initial focus on neuroscience, I included the biochemistry course as an elective, thinking it was a mere addition to my academic journey. However, as I immersed myself in the subject, the intricacies of biochemistry unfolded before me, captivating my curiosity. In one particular class period, we briefly discussed a common receptor type known as a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). With my curiosity piqued, I began to independently explore this unique receptor. The next day, upon entering the Bruchas Laboratory, a neuropharmacology lab where I work, my mentor asked me what I knew about the kappa opioid receptor (KOR), a specific type of GPCR. Drawing on the knowledge gained from my biochemistry course and independent studies, I accurately recalled its activation mechanism and its relevance in pharmacology. Impressed by my in-depth understanding, my mentor entrusted me with a side project testing a novel bioengineered biosensor called kLight, adapted from KOR which fluoresces upon binding dynorphin, its endogenous ligand. Amazingly, we witnessed robust fluorescence in brain areas rich in dynorphin during bouts of footshock. At the culmination of this year-long research endeavor, I had the privilege of presenting my findings during a 10-minute oral presentation at UW’s Undergraduate Research Symposium, featuring an animation of GPCR activation I designed myself (shown above). Additionally, I opted to major in biochemistry instead of neuroscience. I have never regretted making this choice, as this discipline consistently brings me joy and stimulates my inquisitive mind, qualities I am thankful I took the time to recognize and pursue.

While advancing my research skills, I recognized that being an exemplary biochemistry professor requires more than academic prowess. In addition to research acumen, effective professors demonstrate strong leadership and foster community. Despite my reserved nature, I pushed myself beyond my comfort zone by applying as a reader/grader for the very same introductory biochemistry course that changed my career path. I embraced the opportunity, setting a goal to support every single student I could. I created practice problems, and comprehensive exam reviews, assisting virtually and in person. I particularly recall one struggling student with a strong desire to succeed. We dedicated hours over several weeks to work through every practice problem, concept, and test question that posed a challenge. It was a demanding effort for both of us, but the student's determination paid off, and he ultimately excelled in the class. I have gained a profound appreciation for the impact dedicated mentorship and support can have on a student's academic journey, whether in research or the classroom.

HONORS 100 2022

HONORS 100 2023

Driven by my outstanding experience as a reader/grader, I actively pursued other advising opportunities. I became a peer educator for HONORS 100, a course designed to provide first-year students with the tools for academic success. Drawing on the skills gained from my role as a reader/grader, I effectively balanced being a professional guide and approachable peer while also adeptly redirecting students straying from the lesson's objectives. My passion for connecting with Honors students prompted me to seek the role of Honors Peer Advisor. Advisors have been crucial in navigating my college journey, especially as the first in my family to pursue a Ph.D. I saw this opportunity as a chance to provide students with resources for success through personalized advising, regardless of their starting point or goals. I offered guidance on class scheduling, major selection, honors program opportunities, and post-graduate pathways. This role solidified my belief that some of my most impactful contributions to society will undoubtedly be through teaching and mentoring.

In conjunction with my teaching experience, I sought to acquire the best practices and techniques for actively fostering inclusive and secure communities for all, especially in science. One prominent avenue through which I actualized this vision was my active involvement with The Grey Matters Journal, a neuroscience-oriented RSO at UW. Led by individuals from underrepresented populations in STEM, our primary mission is to make scientific literature and knowledge accessible to the public. We achieve this by producing engaging, free undergraduate articles exploring underrepresented topics in neuroscience, such as ethnobotany, diversity and equity gaps in neuroscience, and neuroscientific perspectives of the LGBTQ+ experience. As a production manager, core editor, and author, I orchestrated the composition and refinement of content for six quarterly journal issues. In my lab, I frequently conduct neurocranial injections which require immense precision and patience. Whether I am editing or proofreading articles, I approach the task with the same meticulous care I apply to my surgeries. I prefer a methodical and detail-oriented approach to guarantee the production of our highest-quality work. Our efforts to make neuroscience accessible do not stop with producing articles. We also design and facilitate free neuroscience-themed events. I've been involved in various activities, such as organizing and running K-12 summer camps, designing and acting in educational haunted houses, and coordinating the pre-panel events for our biggest event, "An Evening With Neuroscience," which saw a staggering turnout of more than 1300 individuals. I intend to continue increasing accessibility in science throughout my career because I steadfastly believe making science accessible holds the power to catalyze transformative change and cultivate a more informed and curious society.

Starting this summer, I will begin working as a postbaccalaureate at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) Distinguished Postbaccalaureate Scholars Program. Over the next 1-2 years, I will be investigating the function of GPCRs using bioengineered tools comprised of single-domain antibodies derived from camelids (nanobodies) and synthetic small molecules. I'm excited to continue working with my favorite receptor type as I develop my skills in molecular biology and prepare for the next step of my academic career, graduate school.

Today, my aspiration to become a college professor in biochemistry is driven by a desire to mentor future generations of scientists while contributing to cutting-edge research. I am eager to challenge pre-existing notions of what it means to be a scientist, serving as proof that LGBTQ+ individuals like myself can be outstanding scientists. The journey doesn't end here; it evolves into a continued commitment to growth, impact, and being a proud representative of the Husky spirit.