
Competitively selected for participation in an environmental field research training program developed with support from the National Science Foundation. Facilitated at Shaw Nature Reserve of the Missouri Botanical Garden, in partnership with Washington University’s Tyson Research Center, participation in the SIFT program included a one-week summer field training experience combined with real world field work activities working closely with natural resource professionals. Additional training and work project opportunities continued throughout the following school year. Training
included assessment of Missouri terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, plant and animal identifications, biotic sampling and census techniques, testing of abiotic factors, and use of GPS technology. Assisted the next cohort as a student leader by leading team bonding activities and helping run the program.