Fall 2018 I was accepted into an accelerated dual degree program which allowed me to complete my first year of graduate school while finishing the last year of my undergraduate degree.

The Microbial Biotechnology Program's curriculum captures the intersection of science and business within the biotechnology industry by providing students with a curriculum which includes both graduate level science classes as well as MBA coursework. Additionally, each semester students gain hands-on experience through collaborative practicum projects with local biotech companies.

After a year and a half at Virginia Tech, in the spring of 2016, I transferred to NC State to study genetics. While I was here, I had the pleasure of working with the faculty and staff of the Mackay/Anholt Lab and volunteered regularly with Capernaum, a program designed for kids with special needs. In my spare time, I also would dog walk and pet sit.

I began my undergraduate journey at Virginia Tech by joining a living community in the dorms. I was a member of Student Engaging and Responding through Volunteer Experiences (S.E.R.V.E) and took 6 credit hours in leadership and service. I also spent 3 semesters working as a research assistant in Dr. Bevan’s lab. However, I knew that I ultimately wanted to focus on genetics which lead me to North Carolina University in the spring of 2016.

During high school, I participated in many extracurricular activities. I was a member of the orchestra for all four years of high school, played JV and Varsity Tennis, and kept myself busy on the weekends with Venturing Crew 505 as president for two years. During the school year, I also volunteered as a Tiger Link Mentor for incoming freshmen for two years. After graduating, I was excited to become a Hokie at Virginia Tech as a Biochemistry Major.