As a Ph.D. student at Cornell University, my research focus is on the immune system and the various defense mechanisms in place to fight off microbes. In the August laboratory, I examine the development of specialized immune cells known as CD8+ memory T cells, with the downstream aim of potentiating vaccines. I received my B.S in Immunology, Microbiology, and Molecular Genetics with a minor in Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles.

I have a long-standing interest in science policy and healthcare reform and during my undergraduate career, I had the ability to travel to Nicaragua to study the various medical issues that face the country while also learning first-hand about underdeveloped healthcare systems. I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. with the intention of using the skills I have gained in my doctoral program to jumpstart a career in science and health policy.

Although I am not a first generation student, I am very interested in helping students from all backgrounds succeed in graduate school and beyond.