As a Master’s student in Bacteriology, I explore the role of microbial communities in health, an area that aligns with my goal of becoming a physician. My experience in bacteriology has deepened my understanding of how the microbial world around us intersects with well-being and culture, particularly through courses in infectious diseases, public and population health, and disease management.
Working as a graduate teaching assistant for Microbiology 304, I guide students through the fascinating world of microbiology, watching them make connections to real-life issues. Collaborating with faculty and fellow Master’s students, this experience has deepened my knowledge, strengthened my passion for microbiology, and trained my ability to problem-solve which will shape my future in healthcare.
I have also been collaborating with Dr. Valerie Stull from the Department of Community and Environmental Sociology to investigate how traditionally fermented foods can be integrated into the business strategy for MIGHTi, a Zambian nonprofit, to support gut microbiome health and empower female entrepreneurship. I compiled a brief of the potential benefits and challenges to implementing a fermented foods program in low resource areas: Healthy Guts and Income for Women: promoting fermented foods in low-resource areas. This interdisciplinary work broadens my understanding of health from multiple perspectives. This collaboration helped me discover my passions for exploring culture and empowering health which will influence my pathway of study for my future career.