My name is Ashley DeSilva and I am a sophomore majoring in microbiology at Auburn University. I am originally from Des Plaines, IL, which is outside of Chicago. I chose to come to Auburn University because of the research opportunities that are available. Currently, I am working on a project with NASA where we test the binding potential of different rocket insulations with spores to see if there are any trends when it comes to the adhesives and primers places on them. My first published manuscript should be coming out soon on the research that has been done. Along with research, I will be a COSAM Orientation Leader in Summer 2023 and an Organic Chemistry Supplemental Instruction Leader in the Fall 2023. I hope to apply for a research fellowship in the next year to help fund my research as it continues to grow.
In my free time, I love to workout, watch baseball, cook, go to coffee shops, and listen to music. I am a big planner, so I also bullet journal whenever I have the time. I enjoy having my weekends to relax, catch up on my personal hobbies, and prepare myself for the next week ahead.