Meet Our Ambassadors
Connect with our alumni! These graduates of the MS-RSM program have volunteered to serve as resources for prospective students. Contact them to chat about their experiences in the program!
Tracy Zhou, Class of 2018
"I am currently a 3rd year PhD student (Babayev lab) in the Driskill Graduate Program here at Northwestern University. Presently, my career interests involve teaching, wildlife conservation, and clinical/translational research. Prior to starting my PhD, I worked several years as a research lab manager and research associate in the Duncan lab."
Jules Balough, Class of 2018
"I am a PhD candidate in Dr. Kyle Orwig's lab at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. I am investigating vaginal stem cells and function under estrogen-depleting models such as aging, chemotherapy and radiation. I am passionate about female reproductive aging and the impacts on reproductive function and healthspan."
Cassandra Huerta, Class of 2022
"I am a recent graduate of Northwestern's Master of Science in Reproductive Science and Medicine (MS-RSM) program working as a research technologist at Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute. For the past year, I've been connecting my background in reproductive science with immunology through research technologist positions, most recently, studying perinatal origins of disease and immunity at the maternal-fetal interface within the laboratory of the Chicago Institute for Fetal Health. Prior to this, I briefly investigated microbiota-microbiome interactions in chronic pelvic pain. I am interested in diversifying my scientific skillset, and continuing to work on meaningful projects."
Victoria Zhu, Class of 2022
"I'm a research technologist at the Duncan Lab. I'm considering working in industry or IVF lab in the future. I was previously a clinical researcher and conducted preimplantation genetic testing on human embryos."
Emily Strahl, Class of 2024
"I am currently acquiring patient contact hours in preparation for Physician Assistant (PA) school. My goal is to advance in my education to specialize in areas such as women’s health, infertility, and supporting survivors of sexual assault. I am deeply passionate about my future career and am eager to assist others who are pursuing a similar path toward PA school."