Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

My research experience thus far at SERC has been nothing short of amazing. I have had the gracious opportunity to work with distinguished individuals, expand my laboratory and field work skills, work on projects I'm passionate about, and have fun every step of the way. This internship has allowed me to gain invaluable experience in environmental research, something that I will be forever grateful for.

My internship experience has honestly changed my life. I had so many invaluable experiences both in and out of the lab. In the lab, I learned so many different technical skills that I will carry with me in my future career with mentors who were so caring and ready and willing to teach me. In the lab, I ran successful dissections, DNA extractions, PCRs, and Gel electrophoresis. Outside of the lab, my mentors encouraged me to learn about different careers and network with people in my fields of interest. While at SERC, my network has tripled, and I learned about fields I did not know existed! SERC has set me on the path to success by introducing me to new fields within STEM and giving me the tools and skills to succeed in these fields.

This summer at SERC has been extremely beneficial to me as a young researcher. I’ve been able to run my own research project, shadow in other labs, and make invaluable connections with like-minded scientists who care deeply about both about protecting ecosystems and facilitating solutions for communities in the face of global change. This is my second summer at SERC, and I’m so grateful for the time I was able to spend here.