The research that I am currently working on has been an exciting, and sometimes frustrating, learning experience that has taught me more than I could have imagined about pursuing a career involving biological research. I think that the research project showed me all the benefits and rewards associated with research that is only experienced by overcoming the many complications and obstacles. I started this research project in August 2019 by traveling to the Monteverde region of Costa Rica with Dr. Eaton and several other peers. The experience allowed me to develop skills in field research, independent laboratory practice, and multivariate statistics.
This experience has shown me the wonderful opportunities associated with scientific research. The research experience gave me the opportunity to travel internationally and observe the local culture. Being able to travel internationally is a huge opportunity that I had never experienced before that allowed me to have a first hand experience to local culture. The opportunity also allowed me to interact with local farmers and researchers who discussed their concerns about the effect of deforestation on the native landscape. One of my favorite parts of the trip was walking through the Cloud Forest in Monteverde and seeing the native plants and animals. During that experience a portion of the trail was completely destroyed through industrial deforestation which left a somber feeling for the extensive and irreversible impact left by humans.
This experience has also taught me the motivation required to accomplish the goals of a research project. One of the skills I developed during this experience was problem-solving. In the field, much of the research conducted required long confusing conversations on hypothetical approaches to develop our experimental designs and procedures. It involved trying one approach and discovering various issues ranging from running out of paper towel to discovering holes in the experimental approach and having to restart. I also had to learn how to maintain focus and motivation as much of the statistical analysis was endless staring at numbers and running tests you’re not yet fully confident in discussing. Another challenge from the experience was the ongoing pandemic and lack of resources. The closure of schools prevented access to computers with the necessary programs to run the multivariate tests and limited contact with faculty and advisors. The main motivation to finish the research was knowing that this research will help to further research on climate change.