AS-T Green River College (2021-2023), B.S. Neuroscience; B.A. Chemistry; Minor, Asian and Middle Eastern Studies – University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2023 – present). Work Experience: Research assistant at Wei You Group (2023 – present), Student instructor in Molecular Genetics (2024 – present), Student instructor in Analytical Chemistry (2023 – 2024)
Share a bit about yourself and what you have been up to since you left Green River.
Since leaving Green River, I transferred to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where I’m currently pursuing a double bachelor's degree in Neuroscience and Chemistry. Over the past two years, I’ve been deeply involved in research focused on synthesizing organic semiconductors as a member of the Wei You research group, and I’m thrilled that this work will soon be featured in my first co-authored research publication. Beyond academics and research, I’ve remained actively engaged in teaching and mentorship. I worked as a student instructor for Molecular Genetics and Analytical Chemistry and led multiple class sections, educating complex concepts through interactive discussions and review sessions tailored to student needs. This summer, I’ve also been accepted into a research internship in molecular pathology at the University of Pittsburgh which will be an unmatched opportunity to explore the molecular patterns of neurodegenerative diseases in my aim to contribute to the development of biomedical science in the future.
How did your education at Green River College prepare you for where you are today?
Green River College played a foundational role in preparing me for success at a top university. The small class sizes and dedicated faculty created a uniquely supportive and rigorous academic environment. My courses at Green River not only equipped me with essential prerequisite knowledge but also prepared me for the academic intensity of upper-division university coursework at UNC Chapel Hill. The college’s liberal arts foundation encouraged me to explore a variety of disciplines, which ultimately helped me discover my passion for Chemistry and Neuroscience. My time at Green River marked the beginning of my journey in leadership and professional development. As an international student peer mentor, I supported new international students during their transition to the U.S. It was also where I first discovered my passion for science—working as a chemistry stockroom assistant, I organized lab spaces and calibrated equipment, gaining valuable hands-on experience that, which alongside my coursework in organic chemistry and majors’ biology, prepared me for future research at UNC. In addition, to top it off, I worked as a tutor for biology and chemistry which deepened my subject knowledge and sharpened my ability to communicate complex scientific ideas. I developed a thoughtful and flexible approach to teaching—skills that later proved essential when I became a student instructor for Molecular Biology and Analytical Chemistry at UNC.
Most importantly, the mentorship I received from my professors Dr. Neil Duldulao and Dr. Stephanie Hoffman—both during my time at Green River and afterward—provided invaluable guidance and perspective on navigating academic and career pathways. Their support and insight have been instrumental in shaping my goals and ambitions for graduate school and beyond.
What kind of advice would you give a GRC student who dreams of getting into a top university?
To any Green River College student aspiring to transfer to a top university, my advice is to treat your time at GRC as both a launching pad and a training ground. Get involved—join clubs, take on leadership roles, and pursue on-campus job opportunities. Green River offers an incredible chance to build real experiences that will set you apart when applying to four-year institutions. Use your time here to establish effective study habits and learn to maintain a healthy life balance, so you can fully embrace the academic and extracurricular opportunities that await you at a university. Be open to exploring different fields—sometimes your true passion lies outside of your initial plans. Once you find what excites you, pouring your energy into it becomes both easier and more fulfilling. And finally, don’t underestimate the value of relationships you build here. Professors and peers at Green River can become mentors, collaborators, and lifelong friends who support you even after you transfer.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Treasure the moments you have at GRC—though two or three years may seem brief, they often become some of the most cherished and formative times of your life. As you move through this journey, remember not to postpone creating the life you’ve always dreamed of; the only time you truly have is the present. Life is a collection of “right nows,” so live intentionally. In both academics and personal life, avoid the extremes of overwork or overindulgence—find the middle way that allows you to stay productive while still embracing the moments of joy in your life. Study smart, not hard; learning should not feel like a battle, but more like crafting a fine piece of jewelry—delicate, intentional, and continuously refined. Adopt effective strategies like spaced repetition and active recall to truly internalize the knowledge that will serve you for years to come. Lastly, make time for self-reflection. Growth comes from honesty—be willing to admit when you’re wrong and course-correct when needed. Through self-awareness, balance, and intention, you’ll not only succeed academically but also become the best version of yourself.
