United States
I'm a fourth-year pre-medical student studying Nutrition at the Gillings School of Global Public Health, with career interests at the intersection of medicine, research, and technology. My experiences range from providing hands-on emergency care as an EMT, to developing molecular sensors in the lab, to co-founding KAIRS, a startup inspired by my own knee surgery focused on making rehabilitation smarter and more accessible through an AI-powered wearable device. At the core of it all is a passion for improving patient outcomes through innovation, and a belief that good science and good patient care should go hand in hand.
Conducted independent research under the mentorship of Dr. Rae Cho (Primary Investigator) and Dr. Clay Becker (Postdoctoral Fellow) to develop a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-based protease sensor for visualizing HtrA2 activity within the mitochondria of muscle cells. Designed and validated molecular constructs, optimized transfection protocols in C2C12 and HEK293T cell lines, and performed fluorescence microscopy to assess sensor activation. This work contributes to a broader understanding of mitochondrial protease function in muscle differentiation and degenerative disease.
Provided 911 emergency medical care as a volunteer EMT, responding to a wide range of medical and trauma calls all over Orange County. Delivered prompt, compassionate prehospital care, performed patient assessments, assisted with stabilization, and ensured safe transport to appropriate medical facilities. Collaborated with local police, fire, and hospital staff under high-pressure situations while maintaining professionalism and adherence to medical protocols. Contributed to local community events and UNC athletic events by providing standby EMS coverage on a team encompassing other EMTs, paramedics, and physicians.
Led the development of an AI-powered wearable device designed to track knee joint angles and support post-surgical rehabilitation. Oversaw product design, sensor integration, and machine learning implementation to deliver real-time mobility metrics to clinicians and patients. Collaborated with engineers, clinicians, and researchers to ensure clinical relevance, affordability, and user-centered design. Played a key role in pitch development, grant applications, and strategic planning to bring KAIRS from concept to early-stage prototype.
Served as an Undergraduate Learning Assistant (ULA) for General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry I & II across four semesters, leading review sessions and providing in-class support to help students navigate challenging material. Fostered an inclusive and approachable learning environment through collaborative problem-solving and one-on-one mentorship.
Managed and executed over 200 safe, on-time interfacility transports for patients requiring non-emergency medical care. Transported individuals between hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, hospice centers, and private residences, ensuring continuous patient monitoring and compassionate care throughout each journey. Collaborated closely with dispatch, healthcare providers, and facility staff to coordinate smooth transitions and uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and patient dignity.