Why did you decide to run for homecoming court?

It was partly because it was something fun to do, but it was also because I feel there is a lack of visibility for women in the world of science and engineering. I thought it was a good opportunity to get it out there that not only is it possible but also highly probable for women to be successful in engineering. When I was growing up in a small town and would tell people that I wanted to be a biomedical engineer, the response I almost always got was a chuckle. So I feel like if I had someone to point to as an example, it would’ve been a lot easier for me to get through.
What makes LSU special to you?

The opportunities that it provides its students. I think it’s a large university but if you’re willing to engage, there are a ton of opportunities for individuals. Like for example, I do a large amount of undergraduate research and when I initially came here, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect but what I found was a community of mentors and professors who were willing to go to incredible lengths to individually take care of their students.

What has your LSU experience been like?

I don’t know, kind of eclectic? I have tried to jump in and be as involved as possible. Most of my stuff is centered around the college of engineering. A lot of my work has been with the Engineering Diversity Ambassadors which is a lot of community outreach, doing science and engineering demos with kids, trying to let them know who engineers are and what we do.

What is your favorite LSU memory?

So the Biological Engineering department partners with a lot of elementary schools, so we design and build playgrounds for them. Last year we go to go and help out with putting a playground together that our department had designed, so that was really cool.

What do you hope to give back to the campus community?

I mainly hope to let people know about the opportunities there are for students in Science and Engineering, particularly in regard to undergraduate research. Through LSU I have been able to go do research at different places every summer. There are a lot of opportunities for students that people don’t know about, and they aren’t only resume builders, they’re experiences.

Why did you decide to come to LSU?

I came here because they offered a support system, and a mentoring program that seemed to be unparalleled. I went to other universities and interacted with professors and students and they were nice, but when I came to LSU they were able to give be specific examples of opportunities out of college as a result of the program and faculty.
What’s your favorite class?

My tissue engineering class, it was both lecture and discussion based. And that’s unique for an engineering class. Also, because the professor was so knowledgeable and engaging, I learned a ton. 

What’s your favorite tailgate food?

You always end up with Jambalaya.

Who’s your favorite LSU athlete?

This is going to seem cliché, but Leonard Fournette. I met him in the elevator one time and he was like “call me Michael Jackson,” so that was endearing.
What’s your favorite sport?

I guess football because I watch it a lot, but I’m really okay with all sports.