Student Spotlight: Ashley Eng

As a freshman, Eng enrolled in the pre-med track, and declared a microbiology major because of its relationship to infectious diseases and immunology.  

Eng began looking into research opportunities to pad her resume for medical school. She applied to Dr. Kristen DeAngelis lab’s because the lab work’s connection to climate change and microbial ecology enticed her. After one semester, Eng was hooked.  

Eng’s newfound love of research made her question her career choice as a doctor. She says it terrified her to consider new possibilities after establishing a set path. She hesitated to ask herself if she really wanted to go to medical school. Finally, Eng took a step back and considered the activities that brought her joy, and that wasn’t immunology or medicine. She loved research, and it became her new decision to pursue microbiology research.  

After graduating, Eng aims to get a job in industry or academic research. She plans to attend graduate school after a few years of experience. 

Eng says that new students should take advantage of every opportunity offered in their major. She advises becoming acquainted with professors, taking specialized classes and getting involved in research. All the resources in CNS are key to narrowing down a person’s interests and discovering a person’s real passion.