SRC: What has been your most significant research experience at UCLA? What attracted you to the project?

CP: My most significant research experience at UCLA has been joining the Gomperts Lab! I have been fortunate enough to participate in the entirety of science research: from conducting experiments, troubleshooting, co-writing a manuscript and ultimately being able to celebrate our work with others in academia!

SRC: What are your plans for the upcoming year, after you graduate?

CP: I will be taking two gap years while I apply to MD/PhD programs. In the meantime, I hope to be conducting research at the NIH!

SRC: What advice do you have for students who are thinking about applying for the Goldwater Scholarship?

CP: The Goldwater scholarship application can be time intensive, so set aside time to truly fine-tune your application to put your best foot forward. I found this period to be very introspective and allowed me to truly evaluate my career plans and passions.