Explain your career path

I received a BS in Biology and a BA in Chemistry from SEMO. I then went to Vanderbilt University, and I received my PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology in 2013. After Vanderbilt I worked at a biotech startup company in Nashville called Diagnovus. Then I had my daughter and decided to become a stay at home Mom for a while. In 2017 I became the Social Media Coordinator at the Bloomfield Public Library, a volunteer position. I was recently offered the position of Adjunct Professor here at SEMO, teaching upper level cell biology.

What was your major at Southeast and how would you characterize the quality of that program to prospective students?

I got a BS in Biology and a BA in chemistry.

Why did you choose to attend Southeast?

You don’t have to sacrifice a great education to get an affordable one.

Who influenced you most during your time at Southeast?

Many of my professors had big influences on me. Dr. James Champine was my research mentor and the reason I was able to earn the Experiential Learning award. I also worked with Dr. Walt Lilly for my graduation with distinction and honors program projects. I am honored to be teaching the cell biology course previously taught by Dr. Lilly. I also worked with Dr. Bruce Hathaway in the chemistry department.

Share your best college memory.

I have many good memories of SEMO. One that I’ll never forget is performing songs at the Organic Chemistry showcase for extra credit.

If you were in Greek Life, the Honors Program or any other student organization, please tell us about that experience and how it impacted you.

Pushing through a tough thesis project and making it my own was a big accomplishment. I am very proud of my hard work to earn my PhD.

What is the most important thing you learned while you were at Southeast?

All of the experiential learning was extremely valuable, putting into action all the facts learned in classes. There’s so many opportunities for students to get hands on, real world experience.

Describe Southeast in three words.

Great affordable value

What advice would you give current students or recent graduates interested in pursuing a career in your professional field?

Get experience wherever you can. Connect with people whenever you get a chance. Experience and connections get you opportunities. If you take those opportunities and put in the hard work, you’ll get the results you want.