FELLOW PROFILE

Tuwanda Simmons
University of Mississippi

 

What is your current academic (or professional) affiliation (where do you work – go to school, etc.), and what is your current research area?

The University of Mississippi.

 

Where were you born and raised?

Memphis, TN.

 

Where did you receive your undergraduate and graduate degrees?

Tennessee State University--- BS  and Central Michigan University --- MS

 

What was your favorite subject in grade school, middle school, high school?

Grade – Math,  Middle – Science,  High -- Chemistry

 

Who was your favorite K-12 teacher, and why?

Coach Sharpe,  I love how he made chemistry fun.

 

What would you say is the MOST important characteristic of a great mentor?

Listening skills.

 

If you could choose one other career (something other than science) what would it be, and why?

Chef.  I love to cook.

 

If you could give ONE piece of advice to students younger than yourself who want to go into science, what would that be?

Know, in advance, what you want to do with your degree.

 

When you graduate, what do you regard as the MOST important contribution you can make to society?

Having and rearing children who will one day be great contributions to our society.

When you turn fifty years old, what do you MOST want to be able to say about your life?

She did it her way.