Brittany Close is pursuing her Bioengineering BS degree at the University of Colorado Denver, with the goal of attending medical school, then practicing obstetrics and gynecology.  She recently wrote to tell us about her current research.  “My original research focused on testing for the prevalence of antibiotic resistance by collecting soil samples near water sources in different areas of Colorado, which provided great insight into the transfer of antibiotic resistant organisms through contaminated food and water. With the onset of COVID, I began working on a project that would address the stress and anxiety challenges that some are facing during this time. The project I worked on focused on developing a virtual reality meditation app to help people manage their stress and anxiety safely. Currently, I am in the early stages of working on a project to help develop mobility aids for those suffering from mobility issues. 

When I am not working on projects or doing school work, I spend some of my time volunteering and exploring my hobbies. Before COVID, I was active in volunteering at a care and rehabilitation center for those in need of full time caregivers or those who suffered strokes or other major health complications. I was facilitating different activities for women in this facility, including beauty treatments, facials, holiday parties, going out to see movies and so much more. One of my favorite hobbies is cooking new recipes for my friends and family. I recently became a homeowner and have been spending a lot of time furnishing my new home.”