What made you choose FSU?

I chose FSU to pursue graduate study because of the well-established Neuroscience program, strong history of collegiality among faculty, and exceptional facilities in the Psychology department. And last but certainly not least, my interest in feeding behavior was a perfect match to the research and work conducted by faculty member, Dr. Diana Williams, a highly regarded neuroendocrinologist in the field.

Describe the importance of your research and work.

My interest in how the brain controls feeding behavior evolved through a fusion of personal experiences with obesity and weight loss, as well as an academic interest in the field of neuroscience. As an undergraduate, I lost 120 pounds through major lifestyle and eating habit changes. Questions from my own experiences motivated me to investigate the neurobiological secrets underlying the obesity epidemic that affects so many people. My research has the potential to advance knowledge of the neural circuitry that integrates the diverse signals that influence feeding.

I have received numerous awards during my time as a graduate student including the NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Predoctoral Fellowship, P.E.O. Scholar Award, and the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital Bryan Robinson Neuroscience Endowment Grant to name a few.

Describe your career aspirations.

Some of my career aspirations are to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship as a neuroscientist in the field of feeding behavior, obtain a faculty position, run my own lab, and train future scientists.