Hometown
Smyrna, Tennessee
What inspired you to pursue this degree?
I grew up in a small town in the South, where those with a talent for math and science typically became either physicians or engineers; the idea of becoming a scientist never occurred to me. However, during my undergraduate studies, while pursuing the path toward becoming a physician, I discovered that my true passion lay in understanding how diseases function at the cellular and molecular level, rather than in providing direct patient care. I also realized that I wanted to channel my interests into discoveries that could help those battling aggressive diseases like cancer. My interest in cancer biology was further solidified during my time in my master’s program. Pursuing a Ph.D. in Molecular Cancer Biology felt like the natural next step.
Why did you choose Duke?
From my initial interactions with the faculty during interview weekend, I recognized that Duke would provide unparalleled opportunities. I was particularly drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of the Molecular Cancer Biology Program. As someone with interests spanning both cancer biology and pharmacology, the program’s integration within the Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology represented the ideal intersection of both fields.
Do you have a favorite memory from your program?
Some of my fondest memories at Duke stem from the opportunities I’ve had to cultivate community on campus. Whether serving as a peer mentor to rotational students, participating in recruitment efforts, or engaging in community service events, these experiences have shaped my journey. My time at Duke has not only helped me grow as a scientist but also as a proud and active member of the broader community.
How do you hope to make an impact with your career?
In my doctoral work, I studied novel signaling pathways in an aggressive subtype of breast cancer. While I am proud of the research I accomplished, completing my graduate studies during a time when public scientific misinformation was widespread deepened my interest in not only producing strong scientific work but also in effectively translating complex ideas for diverse audiences. In my career, I hope to advance scientific discovery and innovation by promoting clear, accessible scientific communication. Strong science matters and so does how we share it.
What was the most important thing you learned at Duke?
My time at Duke taught me the true value of perseverance and resilience. I joined my lab in March 2020 just days before the campus shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Earning a Ph.D. during a time marked by constant uncertainty pushed me beyond what I ever thought possible. Now, standing on the other side of some of my most challenging days, I am proud of how far I’ve come and incredibly grateful that I stayed the course. This journey has made the achievement even more meaningful.