What's your major?
Plant Biotechnology
Where are you from?
Belleville, IL
What year are you in school?
Senior
Please tell us about your research, internships, or field experiences and how they shaped your academic journey.
Starting undergraduate research in my sophomore year was the best possible decision for my academic journey. I came into the program not knowing exactly what area of plant science I was interested in, but I soon realized that this is the perfect place to figure that out! Working in a synthetic biology lab was vital in reinforcing key concepts from my courses, and it also helped me learn about my personal preferences and career goals. This experience also pushed me to apply for the NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program. From this experience, I had the opportunity to spend my summer at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center studying the reproductive evolution of algal species. Those intensive 10 weeks pushed me harder than any other experience in my undergraduate career. Both my undergraduate research and internship work taught me key research and scientific communication skills that are difficult to include in the curriculum, and I am incredibly grateful to be at an institution where these valuable academic experiences are encouraged and supported.
Tell us a little bit of what do you do outside of classes?
Outside of classes, I am usually working on a project with my lab group or doing something in the greenhouses for the Horticulture Club. I also enjoy finding entertainment on campus— ice skating at the arena and bowling at the Union are some of my favorites!
What do you plan to do after you graduate?
My plan after graduation is to pursue a graduate degree in Plant Biology and Genetics. My goal is to work in academia, doing research and potentially teaching.
What is one thing you want people to know about being an undergraduate student in the Department of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois?
Making connections with professors may seem scary, but building these relationships early on makes it so much easier to find research, internship, or career opportunities in the future. The department faculty are eager to help and will only make your experience better.