MISSION Welcome to the UGA Student Chapter of the American Society for Microbiology web page. We are affiliated with the South East Branch of the national ASM organization. Our mission is to promote education, research, and the application of microbiology within Georgia. We work to achieve these goals through our monthly membership meetings, guest lectures, joint ventures with other scientific societies, research symposia, K-12 outreach activities, and, of course, social activities. MEETINGS and EVENTS For more information about ASM's events, join ASM's Group Me or look out for event announcements via the listserv. Thanks to the ASM Officers who came out to teach Dr.King's 7th-grade science class about microbes! (11/2/2023)WHO WE ARE Most members are microbiology majors, but there are also members majoring in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and more. Many of our members are involved in research, and events hosted by ASM allow them to meet potential mentors and explore other areas of interest. Our chapter is dedicated to community involvement, and we have given presentations on different microbiology topics to elementary, middle, and high school students as part of their schools' STEM initiatives. We aim to help members with professional development by offering events such as resume/personal statement workshops, alumni panels, and guest speakers. We also aim to build community among microbiology students by hosting social events like semi-formals, cookie-decorating, and game nights. Our most anticipated event is Agar Art Night, modeled after the national ASM organization's contest. Students create art designs on agar plates with differently colored bacteria and the best design receives a prize. Introducing the UGA ASM Officers for 2022-2023 President Linda Jawahar Majors: Microbiology, SpanishCareer goals: My goal is to become a physician. Why ASM: I found a community within our large university that serves as my support system to nagivate through my college journey. Fun Fact: I am learning how to crochet. Vice President Lexie Godfrey Majors: Biology, Biomedical PhysiologyCareer goals: My goal is to attend Dental or Medical school!Why ASM: I like the community in ASM. You're able to meet people who have similar interests.Fun Fact: I have a national championship ring! Treasurer Vaishnavi Balaji Major: Biology and PsychologyCareer goals: My goal is to continue on the pre-med track to hopefully go to med school and specialize in cardiologyWhy ASM: ASM helped me explore science, especially microbiology (my favorite subject in middle and high school) in a fun manner and provide me the opportunity to interact with people with similar interests. I LOVE ASM! Fun Fact: I have moved 11 times in 12 years! Career Development Chair Grant Quinn Majors: MicrobiologyCareer goals: My goal is to attend medical schoolWhy ASM: ASM provides so many opportunities to learn and engage with microbiology concepts outside of the classroom and is a great way to be involved on campus.Fun Fact: I've been to 10 national parks! Social Activities Chair Allie Gao Majors: Microbiology and MusicCareer goals: Research in astrobiology Why ASM: I switched my biology major to microbiology junior year, and ASM has been wonderful for helping me meet other micro majors and find my support system.Fun Fact: I play the piano, flute, and Chinese xun!
