I spend a lot of time thinking and reflecting. On this column, I write about some of my hot takes and general experiences as a student.
The Dos and Don’ts of Undergraduate Wet Lab Research
Research as an undergraduate is confusing. I’ll say it again, because I don’t think I even believed it the first time: research as an undergraduate is confusing. Pipetting looked like it was easy, but in reality, it took a lot…
What I Wish I Knew During My Freshman Year of College: Moving Beyond Generic Advice
One year ago, I was halfway through my first semester of college. I had failed my first multivariable calculus midterm, was doing mediocre in organic chemistry, and spent most of my time (outside of classes) hunched over the desk in…
From Pipetting to Life Goals: Reflections on Conducting Research & Figuring Out My Career
I press down on the plunger with my thumb, dispensing all the mustard yellow pipette tips into a biohazard waste bag. It’s satisfying when all twelve tips from the multichannel pipette land in the bag; sometimes, one or two stray…
A College Student’s Journey with Endometriosis: Post Laparoscopic Surgery
Two years ago, I was being wheeled into the operating room. Goosebumps lined my arms and I shivered, even though the nurses piled blankets on top of me.
Unpacking my Freshman Year at Johns Hopkins: What Makes a Worthwhile College Experience?
The wind rustled the leaves on the tree branches that hung over my head as I walked down the circular, marble stairs. Suddenly, a sight made me take a step back – a squirrel.









