Department of Applied Environmental Science
AES Alumna Attends Mammalogy Conference
Nicole Bonello, a recent graduate of our Environmental Studies program, recently attended the American Society of Mammalogists conference in Colorado this past summer, along with Alana Owings (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. My goal in attending this conference was to engage with mammalogists across the globe and learn about the ways they approached their research and what they have found to develop the pool of knowledge within the mammalogy community.
How did you discover this opportunity?
I discovered this opportunity through Dr. Jenny Duggan. She shared it with the biology class I was taking in the fall of 2023. I read the qualifications and figured I should try. I am so grateful I did!
What was your favorite part of attending the conference?
My favorite part was learning about all the studies done to assess and understand behavior among and across mammal species. There was a presentation on the relationship between coyotes and badgers that took a very sensitive approach. While it supported new evidence and understanding, it also considered and paid homage to traditional ecological knowledge.
What did you gain from this experience and does this experience contribute to your career goals?
I gained a new understanding of how to conduct and present research. It contributes to my career goals by helping me develop ways in which I can implement perspectives and themes that value relationships among species as we value our own.
Any advice for fellow students interested in conferences/research?
I would advise students to look for opportunities and talk with their professors! All my opportunities have come from building relationships with my professors and actively engaging in and outside the classroom. Jenny helped so much during the application process, and I couldn’t have done it without her support, so I thank her deeply.
What was your favorite part of being an undergraduate here at CSUMB?
My favorite part was the size of the classes and the sense of community. It gave me more chances to be mentored by my professors and hands-on with the curriculum. I love the AES community and will miss the energy of being surrounded by people who actively care about the planet and each other.
What was your favorite course in the undergraduate program, and why?
During my last semester, I did an independent study with Dr. Tori Derr, which allowed me to learn and conduct program evaluation research for the Elkhorn Slough Foundations Carneros Creek Outdoor Classroom. It led to my current position with the slough to continue my research.
Congratulations on this experience, Nicole!