The Vanderbilt Vanguard is an online, student-run STEM publication. Our goal is to share students’ experiences with science on a personal and professional scale.

Current Staff (Spring 2023)

Sara Bottome: Editor-In-Chief

Major(s): Biochemistry

Hometown: Boulder, Colorado

Why I like the Vanguard: I enjoy writing for the Vanguard because of the freedom that comes with researching and choosing a topic to write an article on, as well as the challenge of writing in an accurate and understandable way for people from all different academic backgrounds to understand. As the Editor-in-Chief, I am looking forward to shaping the future of the paper and creating a more close-knit community of staff.

Fun Fact: I can lick my left elbow, but not my right elbow!

Maggie Zhou: Managing Editor

Major(s): Molecular & Cellular Biology, MHS

Hometown: Beijing, China

Why I joined the Vanguard: I joined Vanguard because I love exploring the edge of STEM academic development, and I hope to help make these knowledge more accessible!

Fun fact: I was born 11 pounds and broke the record of that hospital!

Brian Kim: Associate Editor

Major(s): MHS, Neuroscience

Hometown: Germantown, Maryland

Why I joined the Vanguard: I joined the Vanguard because I thought it would be a fun way to express my interest in science and grow my skills as a writer.

Fun fact: I’m really good at Mario Kart Wii!

Otobong Udofia: Outreach Coordinator

Major(s): Biochemistry

Hometown: Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Why I joined the Vanguard: I want to get into science communications/journalism when I graduate, so I thought this would be a good club to hone my writing skills. I also enjoy the process of interviewing scientists.

Fun fact: I’ve been in three different musicals!

Vania Sih: Digital Editor

Major(s): Molecular & Cellular Biology, MHS

Hometown: Saratoga Springs, NY

Why I joined the Vanguard: I think it’s so important to communicate science to the public in a way that is accessible and engaging! I hope to help create a collaborative community with a passion for STEM, research, and writing at Vanderbilt.

Fun fact: I love to cook, eat, & explore new food places!