Student standing:
I just graduated with my BS in Viticulture and Enology, and I am now starting my first year of the Master's program.
Degree/Focus/interest areas:
Viticulture and Enology, with a growing interest in how the industry adapts to climate change.
Where are you from originally?
I was born in Vallejo, went to high school in Grass Valley, and then lived in Oakland for six years before moving to Davis.
What brought you to UC Davis?
Davis has one of the best viticulture and enology programs in the world. I was drawn to the scientific rigor and the chance to learn directly from people actively contributing to making the industry better and more resilient.
What do you enjoy the most about studying in this program?
The strong community it builds with peers, faculty, and industry. I love working hard alongside my friends to make something we can all enjoy and talk about together later.
Have you interned at a winery/vineyard management company?
I haven't done a formal internship, but I've helped out at wineries like Donkey and Goat and Terah Wine Co. with tasks like bottling, cleaning, and serving. I also participated in the Bâtonnage women-in-wine mentorship program, where I connected with great women winemakers (and UCD alums!) like Terah Bajjalieh and Jenny Murphy of Oxlee Graham.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I want to continue developing my skills in viticulture and enology to help the industry adapt to the impacts of climate change we're already seeing. I'll work in the industry and likely consult for a while to understand the global landscape, with the goal of eventually building a climate-adapted vineyard and research facility where farmers worldwide can learn firsthand how to adapt their crops and mitigate climate impacts.
What is one unique thing about you?
I spent 10 years as a baker before shifting my focus from pastry to wine. I also went to Niigata, Japan earlier this month for a short study on beer, wine, and sake.