What is your current research and what do you find exciting about it?      

My research focuses on bio-based feedstocks, such as cellulose and vegetable oils. I develop new modification methods/reactions to utilize these feedstocks in new materials (primarily bioplastics). What excites me most is challenge and freedom involved in solving current limitations. I love that I am constantly exposed to novel approaches and experiments, and that can pursue new interests and ideas related to my field. I also love the access to resources, such as new instrumentation and scientific journals, that I have to address these problems.

How did your GVSU Chemistry/Biochemistry degree help you prepare you for your graduate work?

My Biochemistry degree prepared me immensely for graduate school. I really value how accessible the faculty were at GVSU; I always had access to someone if I had questions about my classes, research, or future career paths, which is not always the case at larger universities. GVSU also provided excellent resources for gaining hands-on undergraduate research experience. Working in the lab with Dr. Matthew Hart built the confidence I needed to pursue further education/lab work. I also completed an internship during my time at GVSU which solidified my interest in my current field of study and motivated me to apply to graduate school.