U.M.E.B.

The Undergraduate Mentoring in Environmental Biology program was an exciting discovery for me. A collaboration of community introducing the variety of careers in environmental and conservation biology to students speaks highly of our university, its faculty and staff. Mentoring undergraduates in the development and actual application of research is a progressive move.
I am honored to be part of such a wonderful opportunity to learn. My objective in applying for the UMEB program was to obtain as much guidance as possible in my studies and exploring career options. I believe that the program has been very beneficial to my professional development as well as assisting me in applying what I learn in the classroom.

My Mentor:

This year, I will be working with Dr. Catherine Gehring and my fellows in the UMEB program. My research will involve field work and molecular work in the lab. If I can know anything at all right now, it's that I've got a lot to learn.I am so thankful to be surrounded by enthusiastic and experienced people who are willing to show me the ropes in the field and in the lab.

Why is this study important?

As forest treatments in the interest of restoration continue, it is important to examine the impact of these treatments so experts can determine their effectiveness. Increasing efforts to preserve and restore these forests to their once pristine state is a huge undertaking involving the cooperation of many government and private agencies. Research continues to be extremely important to the implementation of management techniques and policy making. While issues involving grazing and fuel reductions for forest fire may seem of utmost importance to economic interests, ongoing research remains centered around responsible stewardship of the forest itself. I’m hoping my research can be of use to the professionals who plan strategies for improving the state of our forests here and elsewhere. Appropriate forest management is an outgrowth of responsible stewardship. Hopefully my research will contribute to our knowledge of this forest ecosystem and assist in answering some new questions.