Current position:
Assistant Professor of Chemistry, The Citadel
Responsibilities:
Teaching introductory and advanced chemistry courses to undergraduates from all disciplines; mentoring and conducting research with students, and generating excitement about science in the greater community through outreach.
Degree:
Doctorate in analytical chemistry from the University of North Carolina; master’s degree in chemistry from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill; and bachelor’s degree in biochemistry
How did your experience at Hood influence or shape your career today?
The small classes and personal relationships with the faculty at Hood had a very strong influence on my career path. When I realized in graduate school that I wanted to teach, I knew that a small college where I would really get to know my students would be the perfect fit for me.
As a student, did you have a professor who served as a mentor?
It’s so hard to choose just one individual who served as a mentor. In reality, every professor in the chemistry department played a part in mentoring me during my time at Hood, and they continue to do so today! If I had to pick one person who had the greatest influence, it would be my research mentor, Dr. Kevin Bennett. He was the first person to suggest the idea of summer research, and this opened my eyes to a whole world of career options that I wasn’t aware of.
Describe Hood in 1 word. Please explain why you chose this one word.
Eclectic. There were so many unique people to meet and courses to take. I especially loved being able to take part in creating our own classes in the Honors Program; we had a course on monsters during my senior year.
Define your most successful moment or experience.
There were many, but getting accepted into some top-tier graduate schools was a big deal for me. I wasn’t too sure of myself when I applied, and did so mostly at the suggestion of some faculty members. Receiving those acceptance letters made me realize how well Hood had prepared me for a successful future.
You’re stranded on an island, what three things are you sure to have with you and why?
A water purification system to stay hydrated, a tent for shelter, and—if I can truly have anything— I’ll be sure to bring an inflatable boat to at least attempt getting off the island!
Advice to current Hood students?
Keep an open mind! So many students go to college with a very narrow, career-focused mindset. College is such a great time to explore, and Hood offers such an amazing variety of opportunities to its students, both in and outside of the classroom. Take advantage and figure out what you truly enjoy!
