Danielle Ansong, a Ghanaian prodigy who is studying for a doctorate at Virginia Commonwealth University and making waves in the USA.
Danielle is pursuing her childhood dream of becoming a doctor by studying chemistry with a focus on biochemistry at Virginia Commonwealth University.
“I've always wanted to be a doctor, and I wanted to make connections in the profession," said Ansong, a pre-med student in the VCU Honors College majoring in chemistry with a concentration in biochemistry in the Department of Chemistry in the VCU College of Arts and Sciences.
“I was drawn to VCU because of how diverse it is. We have kids from all over, which has helped my education. That's how I've gained knowledge.”
The Ghanaian also worked as a research intern at Seattle Children's Hospital, where she worked in Dr Alexis Kaushansky's lab on malaria research. Ansong's passion for malaria led her to choose the internship.
"Global health and medicine is my life's work.” She says malaria is the number one killer of children in Africa. I will return to Seattle this summer to complete my research.
She also runs the African Student Union at the institution. She has been in this position for two years.
Despite growing up in America, Danielle still keeps in touch with her African heritage.
"I feel very connected to my Ghanaian heritage. I speak Twi with my siblings, and I love cooking and eating Ghanaian food," she added.
"Jollof rice, which is seasoned rice mixed with tomatoes, onions and peppers, is my favourite. It's a crimson, tasty rice," she explained.
She said: "My research brings me closer to medicine. The more I learn, the more I feel needed on the field," the American-Ghanaian added.
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