Hometown: Queens, NY
Major: Forensic Science (double concentration in Molecular Biology and Toxicology)
Programs: McNair Scholars Program, PRISM, President of the Forensic Science Society
Mentor: Dr. Yi He
Internships/Fellowships: University at Albany Summer Research Program; John Jay Research Assistant
Career Aspiration: New York State Police Forensic Scientist

What was life like before John Jay?
I’m the proud daughter of immigrant parents from Guyana who gave up all they knew to give me a better life. That’s been my biggest motivating factor to do well in school, achieve my goals, and remain determined. While I had a strong interest in science and math growing up, I never knew where those subjects could take me career-wise. Then, I read the book Killer Cupcakes and became fascinated with criminal justice and forensic science. 

Why John Jay?
The College’s history of moving the needle forward on justice issues was a big factor for me. I knew I wanted to be at an institution that valued the greater good and promoted advocacy. I was actually involved in John Jay before attending through the College Now Program. Then I had the opportunity to join the Early Start Program, which eased the transition from high school to college. In the program, we had workshops with Nancy Yang, met with fellow students, and got to know our professors. It was great to step foot into John Jay, see what it was like, and learn how to successfully navigate this college journey.

What programs, classes, and experiences helped further your career goals?
As a McNair Scholar, I’m being set up for post-graduate success and am on the path to applying and hopefully entering a doctorate program in forensic science. With PRISM, I’m getting an opportunity to conduct fundamental research and work with my mentor, Dr. Yi He. We’re just beginning our research project on e-cigarettes, analyzing e-cigarette smoke to determine the chemical composition and toxicity. Dr. He is really guiding me through the process, from start to finish. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned so far is the importance of reaching out to peers for support—we’re working with Dr. Shu-Yuan Cheng.

The chemistry classes I’ve taken have been affirming, especially the first general chemistry course I took with Professor Owen Zacarias. He’s a great example of how John Jay faculty gears students toward success. Early on, I knew I wanted to engage in research but didn’t know where to start. Professor Zacarias sat with me, provided guidance, and connected me to possible research opportunities and experiential learning experiences. He and Dr. Edgardo Sanabria-Valentín suggested I apply to the research program at SUNY Albany.

Can you tell us about your experience at the University at Albany Summer Research Program?
The experience was transformative. I worked on modifying the molecular biology technique used to separate conjugated polyelectrolytes. Typically, it’s separated by fragment size, but my goal was to separate by chain length. To achieve this, I observed the impact different gels and voltage had on the separation process. After six weeks of nothing working and through lots of trial and error, I succeeded. It was the most amazing feeling. My research will lead to a better understanding of the behavior and properties of polyelectrolytes. It also means that this new method can be applied in the forensic field and that the research can continue. 

I learned so much in the lab and saw my skill set, ability to think outside the box, and patience in the process expand. On a personal level, it was also a fantastic opportunity for growth. I presented my research at the 28th Annual University at Buffalo Undergraduate Research Conference and the University at Albany Summer Research Program Symposium. The program was also my first time away from home, and I was the only CUNY student accepted to the program, which was empowering.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself with a Ph.D. in forensic science and using that degree at the New York State Police Department. I hope to be instrumental in the justice process, bringing answers and peace to victims and their families.