Critical Thinking
Our project was initially designed to measure fruit–frugivore interactions using passive monitoring methods to study the role of primates in seed dispersal. Once we arrived at the field site, we quickly set out to locate fruiting trees with near-ripe fruit preferred by primates, ideally with suitable, climbable trees nearby for camera placement. However, we were not prepared for Soqtapata's steep terrain, thin trees, and dense vegetation. After retrieving our first set of camera traps, we realized we had captured no primates and had very few observations of animal activity at all.
As our time at the station drew to a close, we were faced with the difficult decision to rethink our methods—and ultimately change the entire focus of our project. This unexpected challenge pushed us to adapt quickly, evaluate our assumptions, and think critically under pressure. Working through these obstacles in a stressful environment significantly strengthened our critical thinking skills and taught us the value of flexibility and creative problem-solving in research.
Teamwork
Through our work on this project, we learned how to collaborate effectively toward shared goals while respecting diverse viewpoints and dividing responsibilities. We came to rely on each team member's unique strengths and delegated tasks based on individual knowledge and proficiency. At the same time, we were always learning from one another and building new skills as we worked side by side.
One of the biggest lessons we learned through working on a team was trust. The ability to rely on one another to complete tasks in a timely and proper manner was uncomfortable at the start, but through communication and hard work, we were able to prove our skills to one another.
In the field, knowing one another's abilities and limits helped us make the most of our time. Being open about how we were feeling on a day determined the amount of energy the other would need to reciprocate with, whether it be physically climbing a tree or carrying more gear on the trail, or analyzing data back at the station.
Career and Self-Development
From the concept of our project, we began developing our professional skills, reading literature, and writing effective grant proposals. As we continued working together, we learned from one another, taking advantage of skills that were previously possessed by one of us and shared with the other. Experiences reaching out to and collaborating with scientific colleagues as well as broadening our world views through community engagement, will benefit us greatly in our personal and professional lives.