Research has been an integral part of my life. It has allowed me to apply knowledge that I have gained from classes towards solving real world problems. Besides conducting scientific research, I enjoy playing and watching basketball and tennis. I have been playing the piano for almost thirteen years and the trumpet for seven years. I also enjoy programming, chess, weightlifting, music, travelling, solving logic puzzles, working out math contest problems, blending fruit smoothies, watching movies, and spending time with friends and family. I am also a fan of Star Trek, Star Wars, and Stargate! I have watched nearly every episode/movie there is. For me, learning never ends, and you can always find me reading through science magazines and journals, soaking up information about the latest findings in our world.