Statistically speaking, Teresa Ramirez didn’t stand a chance.
She was raised in Compton, California, a city south of Los Angeles and the eponymous setting of the N.W.A. album “Straight Outta Compton.”
Teresa loved books. She asked questions during class. She put in extra time to help out after school.  In a high school where gang violence was an expectation and higher education was not, Teresa stood out like a sore thumb.

Straight Inta College
This week on the show, we find out what transformed a teenager living in a dangerous part of town into an accomplished scientist who makes the path easier for the next generation of trainees.
Teresa reflects on the blend of luck, kindness, and personal motivation that propelled her through college, graduate school, and beyond her PhD.  She shares the struggles that sapped her confidence and the leaps of faith that ended up paying off in unexpected ways.
Whether you’re a high school student, undergrad, PhD candidate, or postdoc, she has advice that will help YOU make the next step in your career.  Work hard, stay open to every opportunity, and take a few chances.  You won’t regret it.
Deck the ‘Nog
And since it’s the Holiday Season, Josh and Dan mix up a special ethanol to celebrate.  It’s Eggnog!
If you mistakenly believe you hate eggnog based on the yellow, syrupy gloop poured from a cardboard carton this time of year, then you’re in for a surprise.  REAL eggnog is a creamy, rich indulgence that is almost too decadent for words.  Luckily, we have words for everything, so we walk you through the recipe step-by-step.
Next year, we’ll try it aged…  Stay with us!