Post-grad, I relocated to Barcelona, Spain, where I worked at the Barcelona Supercomputing Center doing cancer-focused GWAS analyses with Dr. Eduard Porta before starting a Master's degree in Advanced Genetics at the Autonomous University of Barcelona. After I defend my thesis and obtain my MSc this summer, I hope to continue on to do a PhD in Biomedicine here at the University of Barcelona with Dr. Eduard Porta as my supervisor.
Throughout working and studying after graduating, I have been so unbelievably thankful for how well the School of Biological Sciences at Tech prepared me to continue my career. During my master's program I appreciated how much context I had already, both from classroom and lab environments, from my time studying at Tech. It definitely put me at an advantage in my graduate studies. When I began my first post-grad job working at the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, it was more fun than stressful because I felt confident that I had the background necessary to work on my project, and I was able to deepen my abilities by applying that background knowledge to a completely new study approach.
I definitely think one of the most valuable parts of studying Biology at Tech is how diverse it can be to reflect your interests. When I was at Tech, I took a number of electives that I was incredibly interested in (Human Genetics, Cancer Biology, Immunology), and the knowledge I gained in those courses is continually relevant as I have proceeded in my career. I also think that getting to know professors at Tech is a great way to establish a professional network and get general advice about your plans after graduating. Finally, really devoting myself to undergraduate research and working in a few different labs was such a good opportunity to learn the type of work that I enjoyed and the type of environment in which I best thrive.
Tech is a rigorous school and when you are deep in your studies it can be stressful and easy to lose sight of your end goal. Remember to take a step back and actually enjoy your college experience- join clubs, make new friends, explore Atlanta, have fun! Cultivating a life for yourself outside of the classroom will enrich your 4/+ years immeasurably. Work hard, but take care of yourself first, and don't forget how many doors getting that diploma at the end will provide for your future!
