Buzzin’ Brood Student Spotlight: Shreya Jolly, Content Writing Intern, BioBuzz 

Shreya Jolly earned a Master of Health Science in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and previously worked as a Research Technologist at the Wilmer Eye Institute. Driven by a passion for scientific research and communication, she is now eager to apply her skills as a content writer at BioBuzz.

October 8, 2024

This article is part of our Buzzin’ Brood Student Spotlight series, one of our ongoing People & Places Features. We are thrilled to spotlight the next generation of industry. Be sure to FOLLOW us on LinkedIn to tell us what you think and let us know if you have a student or intern you’d like us to feature.

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How did you get here?

Belonging to a family of doctors, I was naturally drawn to the world of healthcare from a young age, knowing I wanted to follow in my parents’ footsteps. This passion led me to pursue Biological Sciences at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. It was during my undergraduate years that I realized the profound influence of business in healthcare, especially after experiencing the biotechnology industry firsthand through semester-long internships. This prompted me to complement my major with a minor in business, where I learned essential principles of management and marketing.

However, after graduation, my deep-rooted curiosity for science persisted. The COVID-19 pandemic further ignited this passion, as the global crisis highlighted the critical role of immunology, infectious diseases, and public health. Determined to delve deeper into these areas, I pursued a Master of Health Science in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. This program not only sharpened my understanding of disease mechanisms but also strengthened my desire to become a physician-scientist, someone who bridges the gap between scientific research and clinical care.

In the future, I aspire to integrate the clinical knowledge I will gain in medical school with cutting-edge research to tackle healthcare challenges both at the bedside and in the laboratory. One key trait I’ve come to value in both fields is the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively, particularly to those without a specialized background. Recognizing the importance of clear, accessible communication, I pursued content writing opportunities with organizations like UnlockingADHD, BetterEdu, and ScienceABC. These roles allowed me to develop a passion for translating scientific and medical ideas into content that resonates with diverse audiences.

This blend of scientific curiosity, healthcare ambition, and communication skills fuels my desire to contribute to Biobuzz as a content writer, where I can continue sharing insights that connect science, medicine, and public understanding.

What is currently blowing your mind right now? 

Lately, I’ve been fascinated by the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. Growing up, I spent a lot of time between school and my dad’s clinic, where I saw traditional healthcare methods firsthand. Now, witnessing how quickly the landscape has shifted, with AI beginning to overshadow conventional medical practices, is truly mind-blowing. It has made me realize that success in today’s world requires not only a strong foundation in clinical and scientific knowledge but also a deep understanding of technological innovations.

Equally astonishing is the incredible power of social media. The rise of platforms like TikTok and the explosion of influencer marketing have demonstrated just how influential social media has become. What once seemed like a hobby has transformed into a full-time profession for many, allowing individuals to make a comfortable living through their online presence.

Lastly, I’m amazed by the rapid growth of the biotechnology and biopharma industries. The ability to develop mRNA vaccines, perform genome editing with CRISPR/CAS, and offer personalized medicine tailored to an individual’s microbiome is revolutionary. These advancements are reshaping the future of healthcare in ways that continue to astonish me.

If you could explain yourself right now in only emojis, what would those be? 

If you could travel into the future… what does your LinkedIn Headline say?

Aspiring Neurologist | Passionate Immunologist | Bridging Neurology and Immunology to Advance Mental Health Research

My long-term goal is to become a neurologist, driven by my deep fascination with the human brain and mental health disorders. I find cases like H.M., who lost the ability to form new episodic and semantic memories after his hippocampus was removed, and Phineas Gage, whose frontal lobe injury dramatically altered his personality, especially captivating. These cases highlight the profound effects of neurological deficits, reinforcing my desire to pursue the physician aspect of my dream as a neurologist. 

In addition, I aim to complement this path with my passion for research by becoming an immunologist. Building on the knowledge gained from my master’s in immunology, I aspire to investigate the neuroinflammatory underpinnings of mental health disorders. By combining these two fields, I hope to bridge the gap between neurology and immunology, contributing to a deeper understanding of how inflammation impacts mental health.

What is your favorite quote and why? 

“Little drops of water make a mighty ocean,” by J.A. Carney. 

It resonates deeply with me because it perfectly encapsulates my values and beliefs. I am a firm believer that small, consistent efforts over time can lead to extraordinary results. This principle is evident in many areas of life: studying regularly can dramatically improve one’s grades, exercising daily can lead to significant health benefits, and practicing a skill consistently can transform a novice into an expert.

The quote’s simplicity and profound wisdom make it especially inspiring and relevant, serving as a constant reminder that every small effort contributes to a larger, impactful outcome. That’s why it’s my favorite.