I am super excited to begin my first year as a Plant Biology PhD student this Fall 2018. I received my undergraduate education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, with a major in Plant Biology. Not only do I love plants, but I also have a passion for alternative energy and sustainability. My research interests include the beneficial interactions between plants and microbes, as well as using genetic engineering to improve biofuel crops. A major goal I have is to strengthen my bioinformatics skills to aid in my research endeavors. In my free time, there is nothing I love more than dancing and spending time outdoors.