Helping tell the Graduate School’s stories

As Communications Assistant, I help keep the UT MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences informed, engaged, and connected through graphic design, content development, project coordination, and a variety of communications initiatives. My work highlights student achievements, academic programs, and other news to showcase the people and moments that make the Graduate School a vibrant and connected community.

What do you do day-to-day in your role?

My day-to-day is always a little different, which is one of the things I enjoy most about my role. Some of my responsibilities include coordinating our weekly newsletter, The Essential, designing digital and print content, capturing and writing articles, and editing other materials.

What are some of the projects you are working on?

One of the major projects I am currently coordinating is updating program flyers for our Graduate School programs. The project involves redesigning the materials to clearly communicate information about our programs and help prospective students learn more about what makes each one unique. I’ve also been compiling and analyzing data from our social media platforms to better understand engagement trends.

What excites you the most about working at the Graduate School?

I’d say the staff and students! Everyone here is so kind and great to work with, and I love hearing about students’ stories and achievements. Seeing their hard work and success is incredibly inspiring.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

Away from work, I enjoy the simple things: going to the gym, spending time with friends and family, and finding new places to eat! I also enjoy playing video games and collecting all kinds of things — blind boxes, art prints, stickers, manga, you name it! My room is full of trinkets.

What skills do you find most valuable in your work?

Organization and attention to detail are essential to my work. In communications, even the smallest details can influence how a message is received, whether it’s written content or a graphic. These skills help me deliver content that is accurate, clear, and visually effective.

What was your journey to the Graduate School?

I began my communications career as a Communications Assistant student worker at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy during my senior year of college. After graduating in May 2025, I joined the Graduate School in September 2025, and have enjoyed being part of the GSBS community ever since!

What is your favorite memory while working at the Graduate School so far?

It’s hard to choose just one favorite memory because many of my favorite moments involve the people I work with. Since my second day at GSBS, I’ve had lunch with IT Director Michael Valladolid and Senior Administrative Assistant Elizabeth Murphy most of the days we're all in the office together. I always look forward to our lunches and the chance to catch up and share stories.

I also fondly remember my first Visitation Week, when a few staff members and I were setting up games and activities for prospective students. Before heading back to our offices, we decided to play a quick game of Jenga and had a lot of fun trying to keep the tower from falling.

Moments like these are what make GSBS such a welcoming place to work!