Stacy Ramcharan

Research Interests:
I am interested in biological engineering, or environmental remediation. I really just want to do something that will help people or our planet. That’s what will motivate me to pursue a research project to completion.

Interests outside of school/research:
I am now teaching myself to play guitar (youtube videos are great for this!). I am also involved with a community service organization called Circle K, part of the greater Kiwanis International. I love outdoor activities, but I also enjoy Karaoke and shopping!

How did you hear about the program? Why did you apply?
My professor and research advisor told me about the ACCESS program. I applied because I knew I wanted to go to graduate school, specifically to a PhD program in chemical engineering. While I’ve been in other workshops on “How to get into grad school,” this was the first similar program catered to Chemical Engineering. Also, I thought MIT was a great place to visit.

Interesting things you did at ACCESS and people you’ve met
The communications/speaking workshop was both interesting and fun. I was amazed at the little tricks one could do to better project one’s voice, or speak slower when presenting.

Favorite part of the weekend and why?
I can’t say that I had anyone’s favorite part. I enjoyed the MIT museum and meeting the professors during the “social” the day before. I also thought the Duck Tour was informative and fun as well as experiencing the trip into the Boston area with the graduate students.

Do you think you benefited from the program – did it help you in any way? Why or why not?
Yes. I know more now about fellowships and admissions, especially how professors think about applicants when they are making their decisions. For example, I know not to be afraid of QUALS as we were taught that if you get into a program, then the professors believe you can pass their departmental or qualifying exams.

Prior to attending ACCESS, did you have plans to apply for graduate school? How did ACCESS impact your decision?
I did have plans to attend graduate school prior to ACCESS but ACCESS helped in settling any fears or insecurities I had about both the application process and graduate studies.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?
I see myself in a Chemical Engineering Ph.D. program five years from now. I suppose I see myself having a doctoral degree ten years from now and either teaching or working in the industry.