My name is Aralyn Nunez (she/her) and I'm from Shalimar, Florida near Destin. I'm studying environmental management of agriculture and natural resources at the University of Florida in Gainesville. I love soil and water science and food systems so I am interested in research that explores the intersection of those disciplines for environmental and food-access stewardship. One of my professors told me about this program because of these specific interests! In my free time, I watch lots of movies, go on bike rides, hike, play guitar, and read. I'm very excited to visit farms and see the soil types in Minnesota!

Hi everyone! My name is Carah Anteck and I grew up in Clinton County, Ohio. I will be a junior this upcoming fall and I am double majoring in Environmental Science and Agricultural & Natural Resources at Berea College in Kentucky. I am interested in looking at how agriculture will be affected in the context of climate change and how sustainable agricultural practices will become vital to implement in the coming years. I run for the cross country and track teams and enjoy spending time outdoors. In my free time, you can most likely find me outside going camping, swimming, hiking, rock climbing, caving, running, or playing sports. I am also an outdoor adventures trip leader for my college where I help plan and guide outdoor activities for other students. I found out about the SOAR-REEU program through one of my current professors who got her PhD from the University of Minnesota and was a student of Dr. Julie Grossman, one of the SOAR-REEU program directors. I hope to experience working in the field and in a lab, build connections, and learn more about plant pathology in relation to agriculture during this internship.

Hello everyone! My name is River Norris (she/her), and I am from Cookeville, Tennessee. I am a returning adult learner and currently a Sophomore at Volunteer State Community College. I am getting an associate degree in Environmental Science. One day, I hope to attend graduate school and become an environmental scientist. I am particularly interested in sustainable agriculture, hydrology, pedology, and microbiology as they pertain to environmentalism. During my free time, I am immersed in the literary realms of science fiction and fantasy. I was encouraged to apply for this REEU program on the pathways to science website by my chemistry professor. I am excited to make connections with my cohorts and mentors, participate in data collection from field research, and explore the various research subjects under sustainable food systems.

Hello! My name is Lili Imbler and I am from Ventura, California. I am a rising first year at the University of California, Davis, majoring in plant sciences. I am interested in plant genetics, breeding, and sustainable agriculture. In my free time, I enjoy knitting, reading, and running. I found the SOAR-REEU program while searching for undergraduate research opportunities that excited me. I am looking forward to gaining first hand research experience in my areas of interest while educating myself on professional development and graduate school. I hope to help progress toward a more knowledgeable and sustainable future while participating in a supportive academic community.

Hello! My name is Leah Allen and I'm from Rutland, Vermont. I am a political science and landscape studies student at Smith College, in Northampton, Massachusetts. I'm interested in how government policies related to agriculture and the economy impact the livelihoods of small farmers and am currently writing my thesis on shifts in Mexican agricultural policy in the NAFTA era. Outside of school, I work at a food justice-centered community garden, and I like to play guitar, make kombucha, and cook for my housemates. I found SOAR-REEU after looking for research experiences in my field of interest and am excited to dip my toes in some science this summer!