Chris Aring - Olin College

This past year has been one of many changes for me. In September, I moved to California and started work as a Program Coordinator for Ginkgo Bioworks. The move, the new job, and the new experiences have led me to think more deeply about what I find fulfilling.

Working at Ginkgo has been amazing for me. I manage day-to-day courier network operations for pooled SARS-CoV-2 testing to protect the health of students, educators, and families nationwide. Being able to make a direct positive impact on others has filled me with new excitement and drive. I continue my work at Ginkgo to improve logistics operations.

My focus has shifted a bit in the last few months. I will be attending a pre-med post-baccalaureate program this summer or fall to fulfill the basic science requirements needed to attend medical school. My goal is to apply my background and experience to positively impact individuals' health and well-being. I am fortunate to have gained many useful skills through my engineering education. I want to use this knowledge to advance innovations in healthcare long-term.

I want to thank my community, friends, family, and the generosity of MVYouth for supporting me through my undergraduate studies at Olin College. I continue to use the experience gained at college to push my life and career forward.