What makes you a Difference Maker?

I’m a Difference Maker because I feel that—as a SI leader/student mentor, math tutor, research assistant, student, fellow classmate and friend—I’m a positive influence for the people around me. I’m involved in many activities on campus and always try my best to create a welcoming environment for student learning and fun. My kindness and generosity is distributed to everybody, even though the same sincere treatment is not always reciprocated. In addition, I’m a committed and passionate individual. Challenges may present themselves to me, especially at unexpected times, but I don’t let those obstacles get in the way of achieving my goals. I work hard and study, and strive to be seen as a successful student and role model by others.

Highlight your campus achievements:

University Honors:

I received the William J. Branstrom Prize in my freshman year, and I was recognized as a James B. Angell Scholar for five consecutive semesters. In addition, I was chosen as the recipient of the Freshman Chemistry Achievement Award for 2015-16. I’ve been a student in the Honors Program since freshman year, and I’ve enjoyed the combination of humanities and sciences that this program offers. I’m also a recipient of the Chancellor’s Scholarship, and work hard each semester to maintain it.

Research:

Since my freshman year, I’ve been involved in the nanotechnology research lab of Dr. Krisanu Bandyopadhyay. I’m the lab manager which includes me doing tasks such as training new research students, ordering supplies and contacting members, all while conducting my own research and presenting that research at campus poster sessions and regional American Chemical Society conferences. The research I conduct focuses on the physical and chemical properties of mixed bimetallic nanoparticles. A direct application of this nanoparticle synthesis involves the creation of improved fuel cells for more efficient energy production. I had the opportunity to present my research to the members of the CASL Dean's Advisory Council as a sophomore. I was also chosen as a student speaker at the Grand Opening of the Natural Sciences Building in September 2016, where I spoke about my experiences in research and how the new building will impact my future science courses in front of approximately 60 VIP guests—including Chancellor Little and Dean Hershock. In addition, I assisted in presenting the bimetallic research at the Grand Rapids ACS conference in May 2015. Overall, having Dr. Bandyopadhyay as a professor and mentor has helped me become a better version of myself, with both knowledge and leadership experience. I wouldn’t be at the level I am now without the encouragement and faith he, as well as my other professors and supervisors, have given me.

Organizations:

I’m a member of the Chemistry Club where we volunteer in campus events such as Make Your Own Ice Cream and high school student Open House. I’ve also volunteered for Chemists Celebrate Earth Day at the Detroit Zoo, where we assisted in fun science-related activities with young children. I’ve been a member of the American Chemical Society (ACS) since freshman year. Also, I’ve had several pieces of my artwork published in the school’s Lyceum magazine. I was involved in Michigan Aeronautical Science Association (MASA-D) during my sophomore year. Here, I learned valuable skills in coding and circuitry for use in our very own rocket. In addition, I’m currently a member of the Pre-Professor Health Society (PPHS).

Highlight your leadership experiences both on and off campus:

I’ve been a supplemental instruction (SI) leader for various general chemistry courses (General Chemistry 134/136 and 144) for five semesters. I’ve found the SI program to be very rewarding, for both students and myself as a SI leader. It takes a lot of time, dedication and effort in planning sessions, making review worksheets and assisting professors with in-class exercises, but I’ve risen to the challenge in order to help students better understand and apply course materials. Some students consider me as their role model, and I strive to live up to that distinction. I’m also a student mentor for General Chemistry 136 for Winter 2017, providing students with advice on how to prepare for exams as well as proctoring and grading exams.

In addition, I’ve worked as a math tutor at the Math Learning Center for two semesters. Applying my love of chemistry and math, I hope to inspire a sense of hard work, encouragement and enthusiasm in students. One-on-one tutoring is very different from the SI group sessions, and I believe that both scenarios have helped me become a better leader and speaker. I used to be very shy and quiet, but these experiences have pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone in order to aid individuals while sharing my ideas in front of a larger crowd.

What is your dream career and/or long term life goal?

Becoming a dentist is my long-term goal. I plan to specialize in either orthodontics or cosmetic dentistry. Combining my experience in nanoparticle research and my artistic talent, I want to find a permanent solution to the loss of enamel through involvement in research during or after dental school. It’s said that a smile can brighten anyone’s day, and I hope to ensure brighter days for my patients. I take dental hygiene very seriously (I even carry floss in my backpack!), and I want to inspire better dental health through my practices. I’ve been through many struggles with my own teeth and realize the dilemma that many people face when seeing a dentist. I hope to lessen the divide between dentists and patients by creating a more welcoming and personal environment during an appointment.

What was your most defining moment at UM-Dearborn?

While I feel that there are a multitude of defining moments as a student at UM-Dearborn, I believe that my speech at the Grand Opening of the Natural Sciences Building tops the list. Having to prepare a speech, practice and present it in front of many honorable guests has taught me the importance of confidence in one’s work and the possibility of great things. I remember being a freshman chemistry major, unsure of my future endeavors and questioning whether or not I could amount to anything of worth. However, through my dedicated efforts and growing connections with my professors, I’ve come a long way from my doubtful freshman self. I feel like my actions are being noticed by many and the number of opportunities to present myself have been growing, thanks to the close community of faculty and students at UM-Dearborn.