Jonathan Shao, First Graduate, MS in Bioinformatics

Experience:

My experience in the JHU program was fantastic both academically and socially. I feel that I have built a solid foundation in bioinformatics as well as made a few friends. I started out with an undergraduate degree in Biochemistry ( College Park MD ), so my knowledge in biology was already solid. However, I was able to further my knowledge of biology while learning the fundamentals of computer science. Another bonus is that I was able to visit three beautiful campus sites as follows: Montgomery county campus, Homewood and to some extent APL, each with its own unique character.

Program strengths:

1. Solid all around education, both theoretically and applied.

I actually enjoyed the majority if not all my classes. This is why the field was perfect for me. I love biology and I love computers, so most of the classes interest me.

Advice for students who majored in Biology as an undergrad:

1. Take 410.634 Practical Computer Concepts and 410.633 Computers in Molecular Biology/ 605.452 Biological Databases and Database Tools first. You will use those skills throughout the program.
2. Take 605.421 Foundations of Algorithms by itself. (unless you are working part time). This is a tough class and demands much time.
3. Don't take 2 hard classes at the same time if you work 40 hours a week.