Q: Why did you choose to come to the University of Missouri?
A: I chose the University of Missouri because I wanted to attend a large institution with broad opportunities to explore different paths. I knew I wanted to get involved in research early on, so I was excited that Mizzou is an R1 university with strong support for undergraduate researchers. The generous financial aid I received also played an important role, as it has allowed me to pursue my degree and gain extensive research experience while remaining on track to graduate debt-free.
Q: Why did you choose to pursue your degree?
A: My interest in biochemistry began in high school during AP Biology, where I became fascinated by the molecular principles that govern living systems. I loved understanding why biological processes work the way they do, and that curiosity naturally led me to pursue a degree rooted in both chemistry and biology.
Q: Did you partake in any research, study abroad, or internship opportunities? What did you enjoy about those experiences?
A: I’ve had the opportunity to participate in several research and industry experiences that shaped my academic and career interests. I completed a formulation internship at S.C. Johnson, where I worked on the Off!® brand and developed prototypes for new consumer products. Most recently, I interned with Merck in Analytical R&D, where I focused on improving the solid-state properties of pharmaceuticals.
In addition to industry work, I’ve been deeply engaged in undergraduate research. I joined Dr. Telugu’s lab in the Animal Sciences Division during my first semester, studying transgenic mouse, pig, and stem cell disease models. As a junior, I transitioned into pharmaceutical research in Dr. Hutchins’ lab in the Chemistry Department, where I investigate polymorph control and cocrystallization of active pharmaceutical ingredients. These experiences helped me grow as an independent researcher and explore different facets of the life and physical sciences.
Q: What is a favorite memory you have during your time in CAFNR?
A: One of my favorite memories from my time in CAFNR is how quickly I was welcomed into research as a freshman. I still remember the first time I successfully genotyped a mouse and realized that the data I generated genuinely contributed to an ongoing project. It was the moment I felt like a scientist for the first time.
Q: How did your degree program prepare you for the future?
A: My degree and experiences in CAFNR gave me the scientific curiosity, technical skills, and research foundation I needed to succeed in both academic and industry environments. Through coursework, hands-on experiments, and mentorship from faculty, I learned how to think critically, approach problems creatively, and adapt to complex research settings. These experiences have shaped me into a confident and capable early-career scientist.
Q: What are your future plans?
A: Immediately after graduation, I will be moving to St. Louis to work in the New Products Development Lab at Anheuser-Busch as a temporary employee, where I’ll be formulating new products and gaining additional experience in product development. I have also applied to PhD programs for Fall 2026 and am currently awaiting decisions. Ultimately, I hope to continue building a career centered on research, innovation, and improving the way we design and deliver new products and medicines.
This story was written by a student in AGSC_COM 2150, which gives students the opportunity to explore public relations and journalistic writing with real-world experience in CAFNR.