Tell Us about Yourself
Postdoctoral Fellowship at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research.
What AEOP program(s) did you participate in?
Undergraduate Internship
Words of Advice?
My advice for future AEOP participants is to work hard and make the most of the program. When you’re not doing hands-on lab work, ask to learn new techniques (e.g. shadowing a scientist in the lab). Not only will this help you in the future if you pursue biomedical research, since you will already be familiar with several techniques and assays, but taking the initiative makes you and your work ethic stand out.
How Participating in AEOP Inspired You to Advance in the STEM Field?
I was really inspired by the research being conducted at USACEHR in Dr. Hammamieh’s lab. This lab utilized multiomics techniques, such as transcriptomics and proteomics, to take a Systems Biology approach in studying diseases of interest. Participating in this summer internship at USACEHR through AEOP solidified my desire to work in the government’s biomedical research field. My mentor in the AEOP program was the catalyst for me wanting to pursue a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences. I saw how she successfully led the research team, initiated new collaborations, and mentored the younger generation of scientists. Seeing this made me realize that I wish to do the same in the future as well. She was supportive and advised me to get a Ph.D. as the next step towards my career goals.
What is your passion or hobby outside of STEM?
Art. When I have time, I like to take art classes and work with different mediums (e.g., glass or clay). Also, I enjoy making origami flower kusudamas.
Who is your favorite STEM role model? Why?
My favorite STEM role model is Dr. Rasha Hammamieh, my AEOP mentor, because of her mentorship towards me and her successful role as a program director
