Vicky Liu
Biomedical Engineering
Where did you complete your undergraduate degree?
Emory University
Please provide your lab and a description of research.
I am in the Pappu Lab. My research focuses on developing computational tools and applying bioinformatics to study intrinsically disordered proteins and the composition of membrane-less organelles.
What played into your decision to get a graduate engineering degree?
My undergraduate research experience in the Physics department sparked my choice to get a graduate engineering degree. I enjoy exploring and learning about the novelty of ideas and concepts through the application of skills and tools I learned from my coursework and literature. I wanted to be fully immersed in a research environment with no limitations of resources.
Why did you pick WashU?
Having never been to the Midwest, I was excited to start a new chapter of my life fresh in a new city. With the rigorous academic reputation of WashU, I knew I would be challenged with uncertainty and yet be certain, through conversations with faculty members and my interview, that the environment fostered by the academic community would continue to inspire and drive me to solve problems.
What is your favorite thing about St. Louis?
Within my first year, I felt like I had really explored St. Louis and it was a great work-life balance from the different farmer's markets around the city to going Downtown and Soulard for live music and baseball games. Yet, there is still so much to explore and I have really appreciated the liveliness of the city.
What advice would you give to a new student?
Reach out to people in your classes and program! It is really easy to feel alone in a new environment and you are most definitely not the only one. I have enjoyed the conversations I have had within the community whether it was learning from their research or listening to someones' slice of life, it is refreshing to feel part of a community and have a support system!
What campus activities or groups would you recommend to a new student?
BMEDC and AGES offer several social activities each semester and are great ways to get to know other students in the McKelvey community beyond your program.