• Hometown: Jackson, OH
• Class: 2027
• Major(s): Biochemistry, Microbiology
• Minor(s): Molecular biology and Mathematics
• Other Activities, Honors, and Awards:
  • Society of Physics Students
  • Microbiology Club
  • Chemistry & Biochemistry Laboratory Assistant
  • Cellular Biophysics Research Assistant

Why Miami?

I never knew that research was an option for undergraduates, until I found out about the high level of undergraduate students involved in some form of undergraduate research program at Miami.

I always knew I wanted to pursue higher education through graduate school, but never quite understood the high demand for research to be even considered for graduate programs. I chose Miami University because of the vast horizon of research being done. From biophysics, molecular biology, and chemistry research, Miami has put a lot of effort into the undergraduate research programs, which is ultimately why I chose this university.

How did you choose your major?

When I first entered university back in August of 2023, I thought I had my entire life planned out - earn my bachelor's in psychology, and go on to become a neuropsychologist. The idea of studying a STEM degree seemed intimidating to me, especially since I wasn’t good at math or physics in high school.

Then came freshman year microbiology. With it, I became enamored with chemistry and biology, and wanted to understand more about bacteria and viruses. Eventually, my curiosity led me into the world of biophysics; I was completely fascinated by this area of physics. Analyzing microbial systems and using physics and mathematical techniques to analyze biological systems and processes is so exciting to me.

Key Moment at Miami

Dr. Kelly Abshire, professor in the Department of Microbiology, was one of the reasons why I became so interested in molecular biology during my first year. She was extremely interested in introducing us to microbial physiology and public & global health. Dr. Abshire is truly an amazing professor; her love for microbiology and immunology, and her funny and kind personality only fueled me to research more in bacteriology.

Another Miami Moment 

Before coming to understand, I was completely petrified about meeting new people. To be transparent, I do believe that I am a boring person, but now meeting new individuals through clubs, I am more confident in myself to talk and be open to other people. Although not a physics major, being involved in the Society of Physics students was just a place where I could be me, but also talk to other science-loving people, and learn more about the cool research other students do.

Being able to just be “me” in an environment means a lot to me, especially since I’ve struggled with this in high school. There are so many clubs where you’re accepted for who you are, and the potential to meet awesome people. Get involved and just be you. There’s always someone out there who shares similar interests to you.

Advice to Prospective Students

Miami University is truly an amazing experience. From the campus organizations, undergraduate research, amazing job-opportunities, and the amazing professors here to support you; Miami is such an amazing university. Being a first-year student doesn't have to seem "scary" or "intimating", every since department is here to help you grow.

What are your career goals?  

After completing my undergraduate program, my plans are to attend graduate school and hopefully earn a Ph.D. in microbiology & molecular biology. My ultimate career aspirations are to become a medical bacteriologist, specializing in antibiotic resistance research. I hope one day I can contribute to small advancements in biotechnological research.

Additonal Miami Moment

For the summer of 2024, I was also a SOUL (student orientation undergraduate leader). I'm so big on students being involved not only in undergraduate research, but also being involved in general. I got to meet some amazing (now first-year students) during my time as a SOUL.