Hello! My name is Alicia, and I am from Brookline, Massachusetts. In elementary school, I had many friends from South Korea who introduced me to Kpop, Korean dishes like kimbap, and taught me how to say anyeonghaseo (hello). My friends inspired me to travel to South Korea as a Fulbright scholar, teach English to Korean students, and learn more about Korean culture!
I also am a scientist! In college, I studied chemistry at Boston University, where I worked in many different research laboratories. I started in an organic chemistry lab, where I worked on recreating a newly discovered molecule found in a natural flowering plant species with potential medical applications.
In a different lab, I worked on making tiny particles that could identify bacterial infections in cystic fibrosis patients. This would help doctors find the right medicines to kill these bad germs! After graduating from college, I helped create a device that vaccinates people once without needing a booster shot. I also designed tiny particles that deliver vitamins to treat malnutrition and developed a vaccine that doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge.
In my free time, I love baking cookies, cinnamon rolls, and bread! I also like trying different foods from around the world. So, if you have any dishes or recipes you would like to share with me, please let me know!
I can’t wait to share my journey in South Korea with you all! See you soon!
Want to learn how you could be a Fulbright Scholar like me? The Fulbright Program is the United States government's flagship international exchange program. Fulbrighters foster mutual understanding between the United States and partner nations, share knowledge across communities, and improve lives around the world. Learn more by clicking here!
