I was born in Dallas, TX and lived the first 18 years of my life a few minutes east of downtown. I am an only-child, so as I was growing up, I was pretty shy and had to think of really creative ways to entertain myself. Luckily, I had some close friends who kept me entertained and helped me out of my shell. After having a blast in high school, I began my studies at the University of Texas at Austin. I am studying government and sociology, in my final year. One day, I hope to work on government projects that focus on economic development in foreign countries. For the time being, I stay busy as a member of Texas Crew - UT’s club rowing team. In my free time, I enjoy running, reading, attending concerts, and watching or playing any sport.

When I think about cancer, I feel a kind of uneasiness that doesn’t come about very often. Everyone knows about it, but no one fully understands it. Anyone can be diagnosed with cancer at any time, and even after being diagnosed, you aren’t guaranteed freedom from the torment of recurring cycles of sickness and health. The unpredictable nature of the disease is what makes people feel especially hopeless. In my life, I have always tried to ignore the reality of cancer because of the negative feelings it evokes. Even as my mother battles lymphoma, my family and I talk very little about what is happening because often it just seems easier. Now I find myself at a crossroads: I can continue to ignore what is happening to my mother and millions of people like her because it is the more comfortable route, or take steps to help alleviate the problem. I’m choosing the latter because I believe that if our scientists will it, a cure can be found. I won’t be the one to find it, but I’ll be able to rest a bit easier knowing that I have made a real contribution in the fight against cancer.