As an undergraduate student at UCLA, Ellen double-majored in Statistics (B.S.) and Psychology (B.A.) and has worked as a research assistant in the DiSH Lab since her third year. After graduation, she will join the Biostatistics MS Capstone program at the University of Washington.

Working in the DiSH Lab alongside supportive and lovely scholars, researchers, and peers with diverse backgrounds was a very meaningful experience for Ellen. As an RA, she developed good habits of learning and communication, received detailed training, and gained practical experience in conducting health psychology research, which made her realize the significance of leveraging quantitative skills in promoting health behaviors. She greatly appreciated the recognition and encouragement from Dr. T during her graduate program application process. All kinds of learning resources in and out of our lab meetings also strengthened her profile and provided helpful suggestions for her statement of purpose.

Ellen received offers from several programs, and she ultimately chose to pursue further studies in biostatistics at UW. Through the program’s 18-month systematic curriculum, she looks forward to exploring various applications in areas such as clinical trials, epidemiological methods, and environmental and spatial research. The capstone project, which differs from a traditional thesis paper and involves collaborating with peers and meeting professionals from medical schools, local tech companies, and pharmaceutical firms in Seattle, offers her an excellent opportunity. She is eager to continue her efforts to benefit human health through these endeavors.