Annabella Li
I am a graduating senior at UW majoring in both Chemical Engineering and Biochemistry. While at UW, I have conducted research in the lab of Professor Cole DeForest related to protein engineering and biomaterials. My academic interests lie generally in the engineering of biomolecules to have complex functions, and I hope to pursue research related to this area in the future. Outside of the lab, I enjoy a wide range of hobbies, including reading, painting, and playing the piano. Having grown up in the Pacific Northwest, I also like to hike, go camping, and generally be outdoors.
I applied to the Fulbright U.S. Student program to conduct research at the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry in Munich, Germany, for a myriad of reasons. These include the chance to experience living in a different culture, gain skills and knowledge that will help me pursue my professional goals, and establish international academic relationships. I think my time on Fulbright will also be a great opportunity for personal growth, learning how to foster connections over language and cultural barriers, and becoming better at handling uncertainty. I also hope that my experiences will expand my current worldview and help me orient myself to a global context in my future studies.
Goals
My very short-term goal for this summer is to try at least 5 new things and be a bit more spontaneous with what I choose to do. After completing my Fulbright in Germany, I plan to pursue a PhD in the biosciences or bioengineering with the long-term goal of a research career in academia or industry.
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