Communication is the basis of all culture. I learned this fact through my combined interest in animal behavior and the neurobiology of music. Firstly, an encounter with a dolphin at Baltimore's National Aquarium when I was young sparked my interest in animal behavior. I observed the creature's human-like expression as it swam and developed a curiosity for complex social and communication behaviors in cetaceans, primates, and most recently songbirds. Concurrently, I developed an interest in neurobiology through my experience as a musician and composer. As a child, I often used my own instrument to imitate songs and melodies, a complex process that requires the cooperation of motor and auditory brain systems. This ability to imitate sounds, I learned, is the basis of cultural learning in humans and other animals. In cetaceans and songbirds, different regions and groups can develop unique accents. These interests led to a deep curiosity about the brain and to my current pursuit of a PhD in neuroscience. I desire to inspire in others the curiosity that led me to continue learning as a career.
For undergrad, I attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and achieved a Bachelor of Science in Biological Science and Bachelor of Arts Music Composition with an interest in pursuing a career working with animals. Throughout my time at UMBC I conducted research investigating the ecology and neuroscience of birdsong behavior. After graduation, I went on to pursue my PhD in neuroscience at the University of Pennsylvania where I currently conduct research in behavioral neuroscience. Throughout my educational career I have taken various classes related to biology, ranging from cellular and molecular biology to systems and physiology at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. I also have experience in music theory, ear training, and keyboard skills.
At UMBC, I participated in various mentorship programs. I was a mentor for the UMB CURE Scholars program assisting Baltimore City middle schoolers interested in STEM. I also served as an academic mentor for Baltimore City Public Schools, assisting rising high school students who struggled with the transition to remote learning. At my local church, I then created a mentoring program for young Black men in middle and high school. I also participated as a tutor for introductory biology, chemistry, animal physiology, music theory, and piano. At the University of Pennsylvania, I volunteer with outreach events teaching science and neuroscience to a wide range of students from pre-school age to high school. I also was involved in an application support program editing personal statements, research statements, and resumes. I also plan to obtain a teaching certificate and a certificate in science communication.
As a musician and a scientist, I believe making interdisciplinary connections between topics is invaluable to understanding. In my experience in education, use this approach to breakdown complex topics into digestible pieces. I desire to use this approach in the future as I have seen it be effective anecdotally. I also believe that fostering a healthy, fun, and professional environment with students is important. An environment where a student can have fun but also have high expectations is important for learning. As I have had a wide range of experiences tutoring and teaching, I believe I am strongly suited to continue my efforts in tutoring.