Drum Roll Please

Ok, so maybe half the world knows this news already, but I figured it deserved a formal announcement (and I haven't blogged for a while).  

I have officially joined the Mahendroo Lab and the Integrative Biology Program at UTSouthwestern!  I will be completing my thesis work in this lab for the next 4-5 years.  The lab is focused on the regulation of parturition, or the process of birth, and specifically the remodeling of the cervix in preparation for delivery.  I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with such a wonderful, welcoming, and stimulating group of people.  

I've decided I may have the best job in the world.  Or maybe it's just the best job for me.  If you know me, you know I don't like being told what I can and can't do.  (10 year old self: Mom, you're not the boss of me... you're my advisor).  Don't you dare make decisions for me that I can make for myself. That's why I love grad school. And science. 

I choose with whom I want to work.
I choose on which project I want to work.
I choose the program in which I enroll (and consequently the classes I take)
Not to mention that I get to work on a medical center campus.  Being interested in translational research, I cannot think of a better environment, filled with healthcare professionals, public health workers, and even business executives.  

There is not really a dress code.  I can (and do) wear t-shirts and tennis shoes on days that I am doing time-intensive and possibly messy experiments.  It's not about how you look-- it's about the work you do & the connections and contributions you make to the scientific community and humankind.  Maybe that's a bit deep, but those are my big-picture goals anyway. (and my feminist-self speaking)

And my fellow grad students, oh my goodness we are quite a group.  We come from all over the world with myriad interests and specialties.  I think we complement each other quite well.  I am so happy to have made numerous new friends for life.  

Ok I'm done gushing now.  Must prepare for the pumpkin patch. You'd best check back later this week for pictures of the adventure!