Meet Our Ambassadors
Connect with our alumni! These graduates of the MS-RSM program have volunteered to serve as resources for prospective students. Contact them to chat about their experiences in the program!
Tracy Zhou, Class of 2018
"I am currently a PhD student interested in teaching, educational/administrative roles, as well as clinical research. Before the PhD program I served as a lab manager for 3 years and was then promoted to a research associate serving as the operations lead for the Ovarian Contraceptive Discovery Initiative. I am also a certified ovarian tissue cryopreservation technician and worked for numerous years in the Fertility & Hormone Preservation & Restoration Program at Lurie Children's hospital. In addition to being a member of the inaugural MS-RSM cohort in 2016, I worked as paratech at Swedish Covenant Hospital providing phlebotomy, electrocardiogram, and specimen processing services."
Jules Balough, Class of 2018
"I am a PhD candidate in Dr. Kyle Orwig's lab at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. I am investigating vaginal stem cells and function under estrogen-depleting models such as aging, chemotherapy and radiation. I am passionate about female reproductive aging and the impacts on reproductive function and healthspan."
Leah Simon, Class of 2019
"I am currently a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus."
Cassandra Huerta, Class of 2022
"I work as a Senior Research Technologist at Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute within the Chicago Institute for Fetal Health. My projects lie at the intersection of reproductive science and immunology, with a focus on biomarker discovery in high-risk pregnancies. I am passionate about expanding my scientific skill set and contributing to interdisciplinary research that advances our understanding of reproductive and developmental health."
Manuel Torres-Velez, Class of 2022
"I am a Research Associate in the Goldman Lab under Dr. Kara Goldman in Northwestern’s Department of OB/GYN. I completed my MS-RSM in 2022, where my thesis focused on ovarian aging and fertility preservation. I am now applying to residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology with plans to pursue fellowship training in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. Beyond research and clinical training, I am passionate about reproductive justice, LGBTQ+ health, and mentoring students who are exploring careers in reproductive science and medicine."
Victoria Zhu, Class of 2022
"I'm a research technologist at the Duncan Lab. I'm considering working in industry or IVF lab in the future. I was previously a clinical researcher and conducted preimplantation genetic testing on human embryos."
Meredith Lohman, Class of 2024
"I am currently a Research Project Coordinator at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University. I conducted my research in the Babayev lab, studying gene therapies for infertility. I am passionate about reproductive and sexual health, health education and access, and health equity!"
Emily Strahl, Class of 2024
"I am currently a Certified Medical Assistant at Duke University Hospital in multiple specialties including Gynecology and Family planning. My training at Northwestern prepared me for this role and I often draw on the knowledge and experiences I gained there. I am planning to apply to PA school in the upcoming cycle. My goal is to work in Gynecology. As a future PA I am passionate about inclusive care, patient education, and providing compassionate, comprehensive care to diverse communities."
Anika Schipma, Class of 2025
"I am currently a research assistant in the Goldman Lab at Northwestern University, where I am working on translational research regarding the role of chemotherapeutics on the cytokine profile of follicular fluid. I hope to become a physician specializing in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility."
Helen Montague, Class of 2025
"I am currently an Embryologist at University Hospitals Fertility Center in Cleveland, Ohio. I am staying active in ongoing research at the hospital and am wanting to work my way into a laboratory supervisor (and eventually Director) role. I have previous experience in fisheries and hatchery management working with male gametes!"
Wyvern Wang, Class of 2025
"I am currently preparing my medical school application while also exploring nursing pathways, driven by a strong passion for patient-centered reproductive healthcare. My goal is to pursue a clinical career at the intersection of reproductive medicine, patient advocacy, and translational science to support individuals and families through fertility, pregnancy, and reproductive health care journeys.
During my time at Northwestern, I also served as a student council representative for the MS-RSM program, supporting student engagement, program initiatives, and community building within the cohort. Before the MS-RSM program, I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, where I was actively involved in leadership and mentorship organizations, including Medical Science Students United, and gained clinical experience volunteering in emergency and medical imaging departments at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital and Markham-Stouffville Hospital."