By the time he arrived at WSU, Falco Richmond had already earned an associate degree and spent a year working in a laboratory. Now a microbiology major who is also pursuing a bioinformatics certificate in the College of Veterinary Medicine, the Jakarta, Indonesia, native works as an undergraduate research assistant in the lab of Dr. Dana Shaw studying ticks while preparing for his goal of earning a PhD after graduating in spring 2028.
What initially drew you to your major?
I have always loved exploring and discovering smaller things, and I actually have a lifelong dream of piloting a mecha, but I actually like to be building one since I enjoy hands-on creation. While I am not the biggest fan of math or computer science, I have always had a strong affinity for biology. That natural intersection led me straight into biotechnology, and I eventually chose to major in microbiology because it gives me the hands-on opportunity to dive deep into the microscopic world.
Who has been the most influential mentor or professor during your time at WSU?
While I have learned a tremendous amount from all my coursework, getting the opportunity to join Dr. Dana Shaw’s lab has been a defining experience, allowing me to dive into hands-on research and shape my academic path.
Have you had any opportunities to work in a lab or conduct research while at WSU?
Yes! Working as an undergraduate research assistant in the Shaw Lab doing tick research has been incredible. Building on my background completing my associate degree and a year of experience working as a lab analyst at IEH, this hands-on research at WSU has brought my classroom learning to life. It has taught me advanced laboratory techniques and solidified my long-term goal of pursuing a PhD after graduation, where I plan to contribute as a TA and RA.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in a field within the College of Veterinary Medicine?
Lean into your curiosity and don’t hesitate to seek out hands-on research early on. The faculty and facilities here offer incredible support, so take advantage of every opportunity to get into the lab — it makes all the theoretical concepts click into place.
What’s your favorite thing about WSU?
I love the peaceful, community-focused life here in Pullman compared to the hustle and bustle of downtown cities. WSU offers so many incredible opportunities to develop within my major, and as a huge fan of college football, experiencing the gameday atmosphere here is an absolute highlight.
What are your post-graduation plans?
After graduating with my bachelor’s in microbiology and my bioinformatics certificate in spring 2028, I plan to pursue a PhD. My education and research experience at WSU — especially working in the lab and preparing for future roles as a TA and RA — are giving me the foundational skills and scientific background I need to succeed in graduate school and beyond.
What hobbies or extracurricular activities have you enjoyed at WSU?
While I’d love to join sports clubs, most of them require paying per semester, which has limited my ability to join formal student organizations. Instead, I’ve really enjoyed soaking in the energy of WSU’s American football games and enjoying the peaceful community here in Pullman to balance out my coursework.
What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that most people wouldn’t guess?
Even though my resting face might make me look a bit unfriendly or unapproachable at first glance, I am actually very friendly and genuinely interact kindly with people!