Alumni Spotlight on Olivia Printy

Olivia Printy is a graduate of the MS-RSM program, class of 2023. She completed the thesis track and conducted research with Dr. Monica Laronda. She is currently a third-year medical student at Tulane University School of Medicine. 

Thesis Mentor: Monica Laronda, PhD

Thesis title: “Optimizing Conditions of Tubule-Like Structures in Testicular Organoids That Will Support Spermatogenesis” 

What is your connection to the CRS community and what is your current position?

I graduated from the MS-RSM program in 2023 after completing my thesis in Dr. Monica Laronda’s lab. I am currently a third-year medical student at Tulane University School of Medicine

Could you describe your current research/studies?

Currently, I am on rotations as a third-year medical student. I am involved in a few research projects at Tulane revolving around reproductive justice education and semen analyses patterns in the Greater New Orleans area. 

What aspect of CRS did you find most valuable?

The diversity of opportunities available within CRS was extremely valuable to me as a student. If I had an interest in or question about any given topic, I was easily connected with someone who could answer my questions and offer guidance. 

What has been the most valuable aspect to your training as a reproductive scientist in CRS?

I felt that there were many members of the CRS community at various stages of their careers and education who offered wonderful mentorship that allowed me to flourish as a student. The supervision I received from my thesis mentor, Dr. Laronda, as well as from other administrative members within the MS-RSM program boosted my confidence as a researcher and a student; their assistance was invaluable in allowing me to reach my goals. 

What would you recommend to junior scientists in order for them succeed in their scientific careers?​

I would suggest that junior researchers be bold; take the risk and put yourself out there. If you have an interest in something, reach out and take any opportunity that comes your way. There are so many people to learn from and insights to be gained by doing so. It will allow you to grow and learn more about topics that you’re passionate about! 

What do you think will be the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field?

There are so many options, but one area that seems very exciting is hormonal and nonhormonal male contraception; I think this will be extremely helpful in shifting the burden of contraception and it will be very exciting to see which mechanisms are most effective.   

Do you have any notable stories from your time in CRS?

There are so many it’s almost impossible to choose! I really cherish all of the time I was able to spend with my fellow MS-RSM trainees; our time together at the Illinois Symposium of Reproductive Sciences was one of the highlights of my experience in CRS. I also loved being a member of the Laronda Lab—the daily lunches together and weekly lab meetings were highlights of my time in the lab.