Erika Haws
Galileo Scholarship Winner 2025
2025 Interview
What was your reaction when you learned you were the award winner?
When I learned that I had been awarded the Galileo Circle scholarship, I felt an overwhelming sense of excitement and gratitude. It was incredibly meaningful to have my work and potential recognized by such a prestigious community. This award not only affirms my passion for science but also motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of my research and academic goals. I am deeply honored to be part of the Galileo Circle and am excited for the opportunities and connections that this recognition will bring.
Can you share a memorable experience or highlight from your time at MCB that you believe influenced your journey to receiving this award?
One memorable experience from my time in MCB that influenced my journey was during my first semester as an undergraduate after transferring to the University of Arizona. I took a class with Dr. Joyce Schroeder, and on the very first day, she made a point to encourage the female students to speak up. She shared a study showing that women and girls often speak less in academic settings, and emphasized that our voices, opinions, and perspectives were valuable and expected to be part of the conversation. That moment stayed with me. It gave me the confidence to be more engaged, advocate for myself, and pursue opportunities that I might have otherwise hesitated to seek out. That encouragement to step forward and participate fully has been a guiding force in my academic journey and contributed to my growth as a scientist, ultimately leading to honors like the Galileo Circle Scholarship.
Who has been the biggest source of inspiration or support for you during your university journey?
Throughout my academic journey, my biggest source of inspiration and support has been my sisters, Chelsea and Courtney. They have always believed in my potential and encouraged me to pursue my education wholeheartedly. We grew up together in the foster care system, and that experience taught us the importance of perseverance and looking out for one another. Their unwavering support — whether it was celebrating my successes or lifting me up during difficult times — has been instrumental in helping me reach where I am today. Having them in my corner has made all the difference in my academic and personal growth.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to pursue a career as a principal investigator (PI). I am passionate about research, but I also find a lot of joy and fulfillment in teaching and mentoring undergraduate students. Being able to guide and inspire the next generation of scientists is incredibly important to me, and I hope to build a career that balances meaningful research with a strong commitment to education and mentorship.
How do you plan to utilize what you've learned at university and in MCB in your future endeavors?
The education and experiences I've gained through the university and the MCB department have given me a strong foundation in scientific thinking, problem-solving, and communication — all of which I plan to carry into my future career. As I move forward, I will continue building on these skills, not only in my research but also in how I mentor and teach students. I want to create an environment where curiosity, persistence, and collaboration are encouraged — values that were modeled for me throughout my time at MCB.