Labroots' 2023 Fall Scholarship Winners: Spotlight on Two Exceptional Scholars
Each Fall, Labroots sponsors two scholarships aimed at undergraduate and graduate students across STEM. These scholarships are more than just financial support; they are a celebration of academic excellence, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of knowledge. In this blog post, highlight the remarkable journeys of both Labroots Fall Scholarship winners for 2023. These extraordinary individuals are emblematic of the passion and dedication that drive the future leaders of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Fall 2023 Labroots Undergraduate Back-To-School Scholarship Winner: Aishwarya Satheesh-Kumar, third-year Biology major at the University of Texas at Austin.
"Thank you Labroots for this opportunity! I am honored to receive this scholarship to support me in my journey to becoming a genetic counselor. Equipped with your support and that of my friends, family, mentors, and professors, I happily commit to a lifetime of learning in order to better serve my future patients!"
Aishwarya's journey into genetics began with a fascination for its complexities. Her journey started with a high school biomedical sciences class, where the joy of solving genetic problems with pedigrees and Punnett squares sparked her interest. However, the counseling aspect of genetic counseling truly captivated her. The idea of compassionately educating patients about their genetic risks seemed like the perfect blend of science and human interaction.
As her academic journey progressed, she dove deeper into genetics by taking college courses and becoming an undergraduate assistant. Her internship as a genetic counseling assistant further solidified her commitment to this fulfilling career path.
When asked about the future of their field over the next five years, the winner anticipates significant changes. Genetic testing and services are expected to become more accessible, not only for diagnosis but also for preventive health. Genetic counselors and advocates aim to make these services available to people of all socioeconomic backgrounds. This inclusivity promises to revolutionize healthcare and empower individuals to take control of their genetic well-being.
As we explore the multifaceted winner's life, we discover a surprising passion for animals. Aishwarya once worked as a kennel technician, which she describes as a fun and rewarding experience. While picking a favorite animal is challenging, she admits to having a soft spot for birds due to their intelligence and charm.
In her free time, Aishwarya enjoys dancing, baking, and spending quality moments with friends. Her involvement in the Longhorn Dance Company at UT Austin allows her to nurture her love for dance, a passion she's carried since high school. Additionally, her Pet Grief Support Volunteer role at RainbowsBridge.com exemplifies her caring nature and commitment to helping others.
To connect with Aishwarya and follow her career, follow her on LinkedIn.
Fall 2023 Labroots Graduate Research Scholarship Winner: Toyin Openibo, first year Ph.D. Student at Virginia Commonwealth University studying Pharmaceutical Engineering.
Our scholarship recipient's academic journey is nothing short of impressive. After completing her undergraduate studies at the Illinois Institute of Technology, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in Biomedical Engineering, she continued her pursuit of knowledge by obtaining a Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Engineering through the institution's "4+1" program.
Toyin's fascination with pharmaceutical engineering was born from a love of chemistry during her formative years. This passion gradually evolved into an interest in chemical engineering. However, the prospect of joining the Pharmaceutical Engineering program at her institution ignited her excitement. Toyin's journey into the research world began with participation in the NSF REU (Research Experiences for Undergraduates) program, which was a pivotal moment in her academic and career trajectory. It was the stepping stone she needed to embrace a Ph.D. in this growing field wholeheartedly.
"I am very thankful to be the recipient of the Fall 2023 Labroots Scholarship. This scholarship allows me to continue in my study with another leg of support along the journey and truly will make a difference in my education. As I continue in my studies, I hope to live up to the expectations and potential seen in all who felt I was the best recipient of this reward. Thank you!"
Toyin found her way into the world of pharmaceutical engineering through serendipity and passion. It all began during elementary school when she had to choose an occupation for a school project. Her choice was chemical engineering, a decision that would shape her future. Through research, she gained a profound appreciation for chemical engineers' role in shaping everyday life.
Simultaneously, the Toyin had a deep interest in medicine. The realization of the connection between chemical engineering and pharmaceuticals ignited her passion for pharmaceutical engineering.
When asked about their vision for the field of pharmaceutical engineering over the next five years, Toyin envisions a paradigm shift toward patient-centered care. Instead of generic treatments for well-known illnesses, she foresees personalized treatments tailored to individual patients and their unique immune systems. This marks a revolutionary approach to healthcare, focusing on precision medicine. Additionally, she predicts a significant shift towards nanoformulation, hinting at the potential for groundbreaking advancements in drug delivery and therapeutics.
While the fields of chemical engineering and chemistry were instrumental in guiding the winner toward pharmaceutical engineering, what may surprise some is the whimsical reason that initially piqued their interest: the allure of wearing a lab coat. It's a charming reminder that passions often begin with simple sparks of curiosity, even in childhood.
Outside of their rigorous academic pursuits, Toyin enjoys diverse interests. She finds solace in watching anime and indulging her creative side through various DIY projects, including crafting candles, body butters, and soaps. While she may not currently be a member of any clubs or organizations, she expressed a desire to change that in the future, showcasing her commitment to personal growth and community involvement.
To connect with Toyin and follow her career, follow her on LinkedIn.
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