Hometown: Porto Alegre, Brazil
Major: Entomology
Anticipated Date of Graduation: May 2022
Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
I first came to the United States in 2014, when I got a scholarship to take some bachelor’s degree courses at Kansas State University and do an internship at the KSUCrops Team. My passion for research started a long time ago, but my desire to get a master’s degree and doctorate degree was after the amazing experience at KSU. I did try to contact several professors, but luckily, a friend referred Professor McMechan for me. As I love corn and soybeans crops and wanted to challenge myself in a new area, UNL and entomology was the perfect fit!
What is your favorite thing about University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
I have two favorite things about UNL. First are the people – students, faculties, staff. It’s a family! The second is all the activities and opportunities for students besides research involvement. Students can get involved in committees, workshops, trainings, clubs and so much more. It’s amazing the support we have to develop not only hard skills but also soft skills.
How has diversity and inclusive excellence played a role in your CASNR experience?
Doing a doctorate degree in your mother language and hometown is already difficult, right? Imagine for international students - it is not easy at all. But what really helps me is the feeling part of the university, CASNR, and Department of Entomology community. Here at UNL, I have met people from all around the world. Taking classes, sharing responsibilities, ideas, occupying leadership positions and being part of committees with people with different backgrounds is just a such unique experience. It makes us to better understand other people cultures, think outside the box and have amazing ideas when working together. Besides, being part of a multicultural research group maximizes the diversity and inclusive experience during grad school.
What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?
I took several good classes during my time at UBL. Surprisingly, STATS 802 with Professor Eskridge was my favorite class. I always had a hard time understanding stats concepts, but Professor Eskridge has teaching dynamic of explaining complex topics in a simple way.
What are your plans post-graduation?
I plan to work in the United States for a couple of years and then go back to Brazil or somewhere else. My dream job is to merge technology and sustainable agricultural practices to better prepare growers to overcame pest problems. I also have a strong passion for leadership and people’s development. I wish I can find a job where I can impact people’s lives and contribute to their professional development.
What’s life like outside of school?
I love traveling, camping, biking, playing volleyball and hanging out with my friends. I also try to stay connected with my family as much as I can – technology really helps!
Gabi has received the following scholarships: Global Rice Leadership Award, Institute of International Education – CAPES 2014 Fall LTE Brazil Scientific Mobility Program, 2nd Place – 10-minute Paper Competition at 2019 Entomological Society of America Meeting, Dean’s Fellowship, 1st Place – Poster at 2019 Nebraska Plant Science Symposium, Myron Swenk Funds Grant, Entomological Society of America – North Central Branch Student Travel Award, UNL David H. & Anne E. Larrick Travel Grants, 1st Place – 2015 Undergrad Research Symposium Poster at the ASA, CSSA, SSSA meeting and Best Mate – Rotary International at Camaquã/Brazil, Contemporaneo High School.