What was/is your favorite part about OADI?

My favorite part of OADI is watching students actualize their potential: it's always a joy to see the "aha" moment that many students have in recognizing their incredible progress, whether they are applying to an internship, graduate school, or industry position; whether they are making difficult decisions around what research opportunities to pursue, which student organizations to join; or whether they are choosing the perfect wording or phrasing that best represents their individual story. 

Do you have any advice for incoming or first year students?

A lot of things! Don't be afraid of hearing "No." You learn much more from asking your question than not asking it. Follow your interests and not what people think your interests are. Understand the thoughts you agree with; understand the thoughts you disagree with. Take walks even when you don't feel like you have the time. Eat good food. Laugh more rather than less.

What part about being a writing coach, has taught you the most?

Being a writing coach at OADI has taught me, among many things, how much opportunity there is to make the world a better place. I'm improving the world in my own way: I'm a linguist, and I've contributed to our understanding of how people process language and how we can computationally model their behavior. I've learned so much from student writing about how they want to change the world: how can we make healthcare more community-centered? How can we further sustainable, eco-friendly marketing practices? How can we improve the veterinarian experience from the pet owner's perspective? How can we expand machine learning practices in fluid mechanics? These are only some of the questions that I've seen students tackle in their writing, and I always look forward to learning more about their interests and how they plan on making their path through life.

What is next for you after Cornell?

I'm graduating in May 2026. After that, I hope to continue my career in academia, either through a post-doctoral position or through a tenure-track position. If that plan doesn't work out, I'm going to take some time off and travel! 

Tell us one of your most important dreams or goals.

One day, I would love to have a poem (or two!) published in Poetry magazine.

Tell us a Fun fact about yourself!

I'm really good at skipping stones! My record is around 34 skips.