This experience was a great way immerse myself in the world of research, laboratory work, and field work. Between hatching eggs into caterpillars and watching them chrysalize and ultimately emerge as adult butterflies, I got to design my own research proposal and collect my own data while exploring multiple facets of entomology, biology, and horticulture. I think that this internship made me a more well-rounded and eager researcher, and I can’t wait to apply what I have taken away from this experience to future professional, research-oriented endeavors.
What I wish was different
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and I don’t think I would change anything with the Museum’s side of the program. However, because the internship was set up through DePaul, my time working at the PNNM seemed very limited. If i was to change anything, I would have wanted to expand my internship through the summer and into the autumn.
Advice
One piece of advice from this experience that I would give to others is that you should not feel overwhelmed or “out of your league” when accepting a research position. At the beginning of my time at the Nature Museum, I felt that I was not qualified in the slightest for what I expected to perform—despite my resume being up to par. With a little time, hard work, and careful attention, my fears quickly faded into excitement to go to work everyday and throw myself into my research. Ultimately, I would advise anyone to just go into their position with complete confidence and optimism, as they wouldn’t have hired you if they didn’t think you were going to excel!
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Entomology Fellow
August - December 2014 • Chicago, IL
What I liked
I enjoyed the research we conducted and the networking opportunities.
What I wish was different
I wish I had spent more time getting to know my boss.
Advice
This internship is a great way to get some research experience, met like minded folks, and gain entomology experience.
