MT NSF EPSCoR: What effect do you think the research experience in Dr. Rosenzweig's lab (and the support from NSF EPSCoR) has had on your education and future career? Follow up: Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
Ashley: The experience I have gained in Dr. Rosenzweig's lab with the support of NSF EPSCoR has given context to all that I am learning in the classroom. I've seen that the information taught in my undergraduate classes really is the foundation of my life's work. This recognition has helped me stay inspired and focused in school and eager to learn as much as possible.
Five year destination: In school. I hope to be working towards an M.D. and/or PhD focusing on Infectious Diseases.
Ten Years: I see myself working with people (whether collaborators or patients) to help those afflicted with disease live more comfortable lives.
MT NSF EPSCoR: Tell us a little more about the summer research scholarship you have been awarded.
Ashley: The scholarship is for "Complex Biological Systems Summer Undergraduate Research" (CBS for short). It is a 10-week program, and I will be working with Kate McInnerney and Dr. Mike Franklin. The scholarship consists of a $3600 stipend, and fringe benefits include room, board, and travel expenses.
MT NSF EPSCoR: What contributing factors do you think helped you get this HHMI scholarship? Dr. Rosenzweig? Hard work and self-motivation? EPSCoR?
Ashley: All of the above. Hard work has a compounding effect. I believe I received EPSCoR [support] because of how hard I worked last summer and fall and because of Dr. Rosenzweig's support. The success of my HHMI application is likely due to several factors: the scientific merit of my proposed research, good grades and recommendation letters, and my EPSCoR Fellowship. The last of these gave credibility to my claim that I could meet my ambitious HHMI research goals. |
