I am a junior majoring in Multidisciplinary Studies on a pre-med track with the goal of becoming an emergency medicine physician. Growing up in rural Mississippi sparked my appreciation for nature and motivated my interest in the ACES Lab’s focus on freshwater animal conservation. I am also drawn to the opportunities for hands-on field research, which I find both rewarding and inspiring. 

I am a senior majoring in Biological Sciences with the goal of becoming a marine biologist. My passion for ocean ecosystems and marine conservation led me to join the ACES Lab, where I assist with research on freshwater mussels. I am particularly interested in gaining hands-on research experience and developing skills that will prepare me for a career in marine biology. Working with these organisms has deepened my appreciation for the critical role they play in freshwater conservation and inspired me to continue pursuing a career dedicated to protecting aquatic biodiversity.

I am a senior majoring in biology at the University of Mississippi. As a native Mississippian, I have always had a deep love for the natural beauty of our state, which cultivated an interest in ecology and conservation. I joined the ACES lab to explore my interest in ecology and gain some experience in field work. Learning about freshwater mussels has been so fascinating and has given me such an appreciation for the important role they play in a freshwater ecosystem. I'm eager to assist Dr. Lopez in his research on freshwater mussels, and I hope to use the skills learned in this lab to pursue a career in conservation in Mississippi!