FELLOW PROFILE

Kenyatta Johnson
Graduate Student
Georgia Institute of Technology

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

Georgia Institute of Technology.  Major field is Biochemistry (Engineering of Nuclear Receptors)


Where were you born and raised?

I was born in Colorado Springs, CO, and raised primarily in Leavenworth, KS.

 

Where did you receive your undergraduate and graduate degrees?

My u ndergraduate degree is from Xavier University in Louisiana.  I am still pursuing my graduate degree at Georgia Institute of Technology.


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

Grade School: Honestly don’t remember, I’m getting old!  Middle School:  My favorite subject was Math.  In High School my favorite subjects were: Chemistry, Physics and Spanish (I’m beginning to think I’ve always been a dork!)

 

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

Mr. Ferguson, one of my science teachers.  He made learning chemistry fun, He blew something up at the beginning of every class. He even caught himself on fire once (he didn’t get hurt).  Maybe it’s not so funny now, but it was very entertaining to the class at the time.

 

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

Really getting to know your mentee’s dreams, aspirations, etc., and being sure to Inspire them to go for them.


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

Music composer because I play no instruments and probably have no musical talent.  However, I have such a love and respect for music and its ability to be both inspirational and creative.


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

Be prepared for a lot of ups and downs. There will be a lot of times when things don’t “work out” in science but you have to be persistent and hard working.  It will definitely pay off (at least that’s what I keep telling myself!)


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

Honestly, and not just because I’m in this program -- MENTORING!


When you turn 50 years old, what do you MOST want to be able to say about your life?

That I worked hard, but still found time for family and friends, and not only took advantage of the many opportunities that were given to me, but was also able to offer opportunities to others.