About Mitchell

Hometown: Woodbury, MN

What is plant pathology to you? 

The study of plant diseases, and their interactions with their hosts.

Why did you decide to attend graduate school at the University of Minnesota? Tell us about your path to Plant Pathology.

Norman Borlaug has been a longtime hero of mine, and as I was searching for a graduate program which would fit my interests and career goals, doctor Brian Steffenson's program lined up incredibly well.

What do you hope to accomplish in your time at the University of Minnesota, and what are your goals for the future?

I hope to learn a great deal both in my classes and in my research project(s). Also I hope to better myself as a scientist and scientific communicator, so that in the future, I can 1. apply the skills I have learned to develop stronger crop varieties which can be used to combat problems like food security in developing nations.and 2. effectively communicate my work and goals to others in my community, or in the communities which I help to serve.

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

I enjoy playing and watching both soccer and tennis, and also like to watch football and basketball. I enjoy traveling, and learning about other cultures in different parts of the world. Finally, I like to learn new things, whether it be by reading, watching videos, or practicing them hands-on- some topics which interest me include cooking, scientific news and communication, and global health.