First off, I was planning on doing independent research in upcoming semesters but couldn't seem to find an area to focus on with mosquitoes and wasn't confident enough in my own abilities. The research that takes place on campus is both field work (setting out/picking up the traps, taking larval samples) and molecular work (looking for certain disease RNA in the mosquitoes DNA). This internship taught me to more about field work (as well as public health) and ID'ing. Also - it helped me realized that I am meant to do some type of research.
Second, the people at CHA and establishing new connections (in terms of references). I was impressed when I first was oriented to CHA how friendly everyone was and how welcoming the HR department made me feel. I learned early on my mentor's (Dr. H) mentor worked with my boss with mosquito identification and public health, even after the funding was cut for vector borne disease control. And speaking of my boss - she has been a great person to work for and learn under. She is very animated and passionate about mosquitoes - and educating others.
As for this coming semester, it will be a busy one. I am taking 5 classes plus sitting in on one for my SI position. I am taking physics, neuroscience, biology capstone, drawing, and intro to Hebrew Bible. I have a feeling that the latter 3 won't be as intense as physics and neuroscience. I do have some apprehension about physics - but I am decent at math, so it shouldn't be bad (general chemistry was a challenge because I need application to understand the material better). Neuroscience, one of my interests in psychology, will have lab reports but I am sure it will be fine.
I am also excited to continue my work study in public relations - to continue to grow as a writer and push myself out of my comfort zone. I also got an Supplemental Instructor position earlier in the summer - which I sit in on the classes - and basically do group tutoring sessions 2 x a week, as well as other miscellaneous paperwork.
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