Learn Why One UD Degree Wasn't Enough for Shaili Patel

“Although I was drawn to biology and very interested in undertaking multiple research projects, I also had an interest in business. Thanks to a dual degree program offered by the University of Delaware, I was able to pursue and earn an MBA and a Ph.D. in biological sciences at the same time. While conducting biomedical research that I hope will have a great impact, I was taking business classes that showed me how to apply theoretical knowledge to practical applications in the real world.

As a graduate student, I had the opportunity to participate in many extracurricular activities, which enabled me to develop strong leadership and problem-solving skills. I mentored undergraduate students, served as a graduate student representative for the Teaching and Technology Committee and as a career panelist at UD events, promoted STEM education to elementary and high school students, judged student poster competitions, and reviewed high school and undergraduate student grant applications. In my role of BioGSA officer, I helped graduate students network with the world inside and outside of academia.

I am currently an American Association for the Advancement of Science [AAAS] Science and Technology Policy Fellowship [STPF] fellow in the executive branch of the U.S. Department of Defense in the Office of the Secretary of Defense - Science and Technology Foundations Office. Though I get to work on the STEM education portfolio, defense labs portfolio and many other subject areas I dreamed of working on, I miss going to the UDairy Creamery with my friends for the great ice cream, especially the mango basil and Delaware River mud pie.”

- Shaili Patel