Department of Applied Environmental Science
AES Alumna Attends Mammalogy Conference
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Alana Owings, a recent graduate of our Environmental Studies program, recently attended the American Society of Mammalogists conference in Colorado this past summer, along with Nicole Bonello (another Environmental Studies graduate) and Dr. Jennifer Duggan.
The American Society of Mammalogists fully funded her airfare, registration, and other expenses. The American Society of Mammalogists is a research organization whose primary purpose is to encourage the study of mammals and the professions studying them. The organization emphasizes the importance of public policy and education.
Check out her interview below!
Did you present research? If so, what was your research about?
I did not present research at the conference. However, I was still given the opportunity to attend the conference to get the experience and understanding of what a scientific conference is like.
How did you discover this opportunity?
I discovered this wonderful opportunity through Dr. Jenny Duggan; she had mentioned it in an email, so I reached out to see if she thought that I would qualify.
What was your favorite part of attending the conference?
After all my experiences at the conference, it is hard to pick a single favorite part since the whole event was truly my favorite. With that said my top two were attending technical sessions and having the opportunity to have a meal with a mammalogist. The technical sessions were a great way to gauge my interest in mammalogy and its intersections with other sciences such as physiology, ecology, morphology, and at least nine additional fields. Having a meal with a mammalogist was a splendid way to have a more one-on-one conversation and the opportunity to truly pick the brains of a professional who can give helpful insight.
What did you gain from this experience and does this experience contribute to your career goals?
I was able to gain a lot from this experience and more clarity as to what my career goals are. I got wonderful advice from two people: Dr. Kayce Bell and Dr. Bret Pasch, who were able to help provide direction by allowing me the opportunity to ask questions about their educational and career paths that led to where they are today.
Any advice for fellow students interested in conferences/research?
My big advice for students who are interested in conferences and research is to talk to your professors! Ask them questions and see if they know of any opportunities to participate in research, present research, or just attend a conference. Most importantly, reach out even if you do not think you qualify for an opportunity.
What was your favorite part of being an undergraduate here at CSUMB?
My favorite part of being an undergraduate at CSUMB is 100% all of the professors I had. Every single one of them put a strong effort into supporting not just me but every single one of their students.
What was your favorite course in the undergraduate program, and why?
My favorite course during my undergraduate program was Bio-360 Natural History of California Wildlife, while it was a bit of a challenge it was well worth it.
Congratulations on this opportunity, Alana!