Originally from mid-Michigan, I am currently a rising junior at Pomona College majoring in physics and astronomy. Like many students, I am interested in exploring the ways in which science and engineering directly impact people’s lives. Through research, I explored this intersection last summer on a project implementing image-processing techniques to detect infectious diseases with nano-biosensors in developing countries. Through coursework, the breadth of study at Pomona has enabled me to pursue academic training in policy, public health and economics in tandem with my physical and life science courses. That combination has provided me with insight into how science and policy coalesce, an intersection that impacts all of us and is crucial now, more than ever. 

As a physics major, I serve as a student-faculty liaison for our department and work as a teaching assistant for introductory physics classes. I am also engaged in outreach and mentorship,  participating in a campus reading group that works to improve peer mentoring and inclusivity in STEM disciplines. My efforts through our SPS chapter are similarly focused on conducting K-12 outreach events throughout the year. Although I am not yet sure of my plans after my undergraduate studies, I aspire to work in a field which informs or is related to science policy, and I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to broaden my experience in that area as a Mather Policy Intern. 

Outside of school, I am a runner on the Pomona-Pitzer cross country and track and field teams, and I volunteer as a college preparatory mentor with local high schoolers. I enjoy playing the piano, especially in impromptu jam sessions, and I always love the chance to do anything to explore the outdoors.