Mentorship and Teaching

Supportive one-on-one relationships with mentors have drastically shaped the direction of my career and research. Their guidance and encouragement not only helped me with research and studies, but allowed me to feel comfortable expressing myself and growing both professional and personally. I can look back at many turning points in my life that were guided by the advice from my mentors. I am incredibly grateful for all of the support they have given me.

These experiences shape how I approach mentorship myself. I strongly believe that a personal connection makes a meaningful difference. No two students are the same, and each contributes unique perspectives shaped by their backgrounds, interests, and goals. I approach mentorship fluidly, adjusting goals to better fit what my students find important to their own development while ensuring they still contribute to larger research projects. I believe experiencing different careers first-hand can be incredibly influential in shaping students’ interests and career goals.

Mentored Students

Maria Vincent, Ph.D. Student, University of Hawaii Manoa, 2024-2026

Tatum Umiamaka, B.S. Student, University of Hawaii Manoa, 2024-2026

Jayke Ngyuen, Ph.D. Student, University of California San Diego

Jarren Seson, B.S. Student, Univeresity of Hawaii Manoa, 2025

Casey Scoggin, Ph.D. Student, University of Arizona, 2022-2023

Oliver Wu, M.S. Student, University of Arizona, 2022-2023

Ben Calvin, Ph.D. Student, University of California Los Angelos, 2023

Elaine Smith, B.S. Student, Colorado State University, 2023

Sam Walker, Ph.D. Student, University of Hawaii Manoa, 2022

Rachel Turner, B.S. Student University of Arizona, 2019

Madison Jean, M.S. Student, University of Arizona, 2018-2019