Profile

• Time Zone

  Pacific

  
  
• Organization

  California Botanic Garden

  
  
• Role

  Scientist Mentor: I will mentor teams of students online

  
  
• Research Interests (300 words)

  conservation, Botanical fieldwork, floristics, natural history collections, science communication, public policy

  
  
• Profile Question 1

  When and why did you decide to go into a science career?

  
  
• Answer the question you selected for profile question 1 here (300 words):

  Growing up, I spent a lot of time outdoors with my family. I would often catch butterflies and frogs, and go hiking with my dad. I firmly believe this inspired my love for nature. When it came time to choose my major in undergrad, I knew that Biology just felt right. I wanted to help protect the environment. My love for plants came later in my undergraduate career, and I didn't start getting more botany experience until I moved to southern California (from central New York) in 2017. There is so much to learn about plants! Every hike turns into an amazing adventure when you know about the natural world around you.

  
  
• Profile Question 2

  Can you describe your attitude toward science when you were in high school?

  
  
• Answer the question you selected for profile question 2 here (300 words):

  I have always had trouble with self-confidence. It's something that follows me to this day, but especially impacted me in high school. I struggled a lot with math and science, but liked biology enough to really work hard and do well in it. I made it into honors biology my sophomore year of high school and AP biology my senior year. Despite enjoying the classes, I still struggled. I have vivid memories of going to my teachers, crying, asking if they thought I should stay in the class because I was struggling so much. Thankfully, I had kind teachers who encouraged me to stay and helped me succeed! The support of so many teachers and professors throughout my life has really helped me get to where I am today.

  
  
• Profile Question 3

  Do you have advice for students about preparing for a science career?

  
  
• Answer the question you selected for profile question 3 here (300 words):

  Take every opportunity that comes along! You never know where things are going to lead. Also, be persistent. People are busy, and may not remember to respond to your email, etc. But if you continue to reach out and show your interest, they will be forced to remember you! Finally, always be kind, friendly, and enthusiastic. People want to work with others who are fun to be around.

  
  
• Capacity: How many teams at a time are you comfortable working with?

  2