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Biology, B.S. | Class of
Vannia Peña
Public Health Laboratory Assistant II
Employer: Humboldt County
Job description: My laboratory is in charge of testing clinical and environmental samples that pose a threat to public health. We are a high throughput testing facility focused on detecting disease causing microbes in water and oyster samples, as well as detecting bacterial infections, and viral infections in patient samples.
About Vannia
Why did you choose this program?
My microbiology mentor from community college taught me that microbes are everywhere. What captivated me the most about microbes is their ability to endure life under severe environments. I did my research and found that HSU had an awesome microbial ecology research team and I wanted to be involved. I reached out to the late Patty Siering and she invited me to join her microbial ecology lab where we studied Microcystis aeruginosa.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
Greatly. Not only did I get a head full of fun microbiology facts, but I fell in love with ecology and chemistry. I became extremely passionate about the whos, the whys, and the hows of life.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
I enjoyed taking botany courses as a part of my degree. Ultimately falling in love with aseptically culturing plant tissue in vitro and making it a huge part of my Independent Study. I got to take scanning and transmission electron microscopy which taught me hands-on chemistry and sample processing.
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
I would say to find a mentor from the very beginning you start. Have them introduce you to other student research/study groups. Get out of your comfort zone and ask questions, even if it is through a private email. JOIN STUDY GROUPS with people from class! who cares how nerdy and uncool it looks?