Scholar Profile

Voted Most Likely To:
Become President of the United States

Graduated:
Baylor University, Class of 1998
California Institute of Technology (Caltech), PhD
University of California, Berkeley, School of Law (Boalt Hall), JD

Currently Working As:
Corporate Counsel, IP Litigation, Gilead Sciences, Inc.

What do you love about your job?
I love the fact that my career is challenging and thus I am constantly learning new things about myself and my profession. My interest in science came from a deep desire to understand my surroundings. This innate curiosity has been constant throughout my educational journey and continues to the present. My company is a natural professional fit for me, where I work with legal colleagues and scientists with a rich variety of experiences that shape my professional development.

What has been the most exciting part of your career so far?
My present position has been the most exciting part of my career! I am so fortunate to work for an organization that develops innovative medicines that affect the lives of many people—individuals with life-threatening illnesses—around the world. I am entrusted with a great deal of responsibility related to the intellectual property rights of my company’s important products.

What would you tell yourself at age 18?
I would tell my 18-year old-self to not fear change and to embrace the unknown. I would encourage my 18-year-old self to be more assertive and confident. I would also tell my younger self to develop deep relationships with a small group of friends and have more fun!

How has ACS Scholars impacted your life and career?
The ACS Scholars program provided financial assistance for me at a time when my future at my undergraduate institution looked bleak. I will be forever grateful for the financial award that allowed me to continue my chemistry studies. I also enjoy my current involvement with the program since it allows me to speak to young people and encourage them in their journey.