What is your position at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
My position at UNL is a research coordinator for the department of entomology, where I wear three hats (dare I say, three types of antennae: clavate, setaceous and plumose…!). I am providing support to three professors with a focus on pollinator health, plant-insect interactions and toxicology studying monarch butterflies, aphids and mosquitos.
What drew you to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
A lover’s quarrel that has shaped me into “the traveling spouse” drew me to UNL. Although, it was on my list of future job and grad school options; my arm wasn’t twisted too hard.
What aspect of working in an educational setting do you enjoy the most?
An aspect of working in an education setting that I enjoy the most is the vast quantity of outreach, networking, and collaboration in arm’s reach that leads to professional growth and development.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
One thing I consider my greatest achievement is being the first in my family to obtain a master’s degree. My grandparents immigrated from Mexico to give a better life to my parents which granted me the opportunity to pursue my career interests in entomology.
What is something that most people don't know about you?
Something most people don’t know about me is that I have been a professional sushi chef on the weekends in several states I’ve moved to.
What is your life like outside of work?
My life outside work includes spending time with my husband and dog at home or on long hikes, baking sourdough bread bowls, replicating restaurant/authentic style foods in my home kitchen and playing board games.