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Biology, B.S. | Class of
Melissa DeSiervo
Postdoctoral associate
Employer: University of Wyoming
Job description: I'm a postdoc researcher in quantitative community ecology supervised by Dr. Lauren Shoemaker.
About Melissa
Why did you choose this program?
I chose the HSU biology grad program to work with Dr. Erik Jules on a project funded through the US Forest Service to study the impacts on fire on serpentine plant communities.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
As a master's student at HSU, I developed the skills necessary to pursue a career as an academic ecologist including designing and implementing a robust field study, managing and archiving data, how to be an effective teacher, and how to read and write scientific articles. My master's thesis research was the first academic article I published.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
As a master's student at HSU I had the opportunity to TA several courses including plant taxonomy, plant ecology, and principles of ecology. Through these experiences I learned an incredible amount about what it means to be an effective instructor, especially for courses that emphasize natural history, scientific inquiry, and critical thinking skills.
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
Be prepared to work hard and independently. Seek out help from your peers and colleagues.