- Assisted with the setup of an RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) experiment to analyze gene expression and how it is affected between two strains (Fusarium verticillioides WT and the deletion mutant of the ZBD1 gene) when treated with pyrrocidines A and B - Shadowed all laboratory processes and recorded observations following USDA lab safety protocols

- Researched Fusarium verticillioides, a mycotoxigenic fungus and pathogen of maize, to eliminate fumonisin contamination in pre-harvest maize and improve food safety and human and livestock health and welfare- Challenged F. verticillioides to increasing doses of pyrrocidines (secondary metabolite produced by the maize endophyte, Sarocladium zeae) to assess their ability to eliminate fungal growth and fumonisin production- Collaborated with an interdisciplinary team of professional researchers to conduct, conceptualize, and troubleshoot experiments surrounding fungal culturing, fumonisin production, and RNA extraction - Delivered oral presentation of my research findings to the TMRU Research Leader & Research Plant Pathologist - Selected to present my project at the American Institute of Chemical Engineers' (AlChE) Undergraduate STEM 3-Minute Research Showcase for UGA- Developed professional literature review and scientific writing skills by composing a research paper describing the research background, rationale, methods, and results of my project- Performed general pipetting, fungal culturing, DNA and RNA isolation, PCR and RT-qPCR, bioinformatic analyses of DNA sequences, and pyrrocidine dose-response studies using a Bioscreen C- Completed 150+ hours of internship work that successfully met the Health Promotion (HESPA II) professional responsibilities, competencies, and sub-competencies (R/C/SCs)

- Selected as 1 of 5 qualified, undergraduate women of color in STEM out of over 20 applicants for the "Program to Enrich and Amplify Rising Leaders in STEM" (PEARLS)- Engaged in small group discussions and activities on: (1) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; (2) Mental Health; (3) Soft Skills (leadership, networking, public speaking, and writing/email composition); and (4) Technical Research Skills

- Successfully drove the pre-lease (number of leases signed before property construction) up by 32% alone from 2020 to 2021- Enabled skills in active listening and customer service to manage and resolve difficult situations quickly- Guided prospects through tours of the construction site, leasing office, and property for a positive and professional experience- Assisted in the development of marketing plans and social media outreach strategies to attract prospects

- Monitored daily productivity by answering phones and emails and greeting 75+ clients per month in the office- Shadowed and transcribed business consultations of the Vice President and his clientele of health professionals- Oversaw administrative tasks and managed the online database to strengthen the efficient workflow process