From the April 2023 edition of the Entomology Graduate Student Association Student Spotlight
About: As a military kid, I’m not exactly from anywhere. I grew up in Europe (England and Italy) and have lived in over 10 different states and countries throughout my life. I currently work in Dr. Sarah Short’s vector biology lab, studying the effect of nutrition on Aedes aegypti mosquitos. I am currently in my second year of grad school, and hope to graduate with my PhD in entomology in a few years’ time.
Research: My research is focused on male Aedes aegypti and how manipulating their diets and nutrition may affect females after they mate. Specifically, by providing different diets to males, I am hoping to see downstream affects such as changes in longevity and survival in females. My work is currently focused on augmentation of the adult male diet, though I plan to explore larval nutrition next.
Get to know!
1. Who has taught you the best lesson in life?
I can’t remember exactly who taught me this, but my favourite saying is “never be afraid to be a little selfish.” Although the people and environment around you will constantly change, you will always have to live with yourself. It’s okay to put your mental health, physical health, education, and general wellbeing first sometimes!
2. What are your hobbies?
I’m an avid gamer, love to camp (primitive camping of course!), and am very big into the EDM scene (live music and shows). As a huge extrovert, you can find me at Skully’s music diner downtown anytime they have a live event going on!
3. Do you have a hidden party trick?
Not really, but my go-to would be showing people the scars from when I had my extra fingers and toes removed as a kid (I was born polydactyly). Weird, gross, or cool? I don’t really know anymore.
4. What is the worst advice you have ever received?
“Find a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life.” That’s so untrue. I think if you find a job you truly love, you will work hard every day for the rest of your life! Plus, no matter the job, some days are always more difficult or challenging than others.