I continued my academic journey at the University of Florida, where I earned my Master’s degree in Soil and Water Sciences. My research focused on nitrogen use efficiency in tomato production systems, leveraging techniques like isotopic 15N analysis to better understand nutrient dynamics in sandy soils. This work revealed significant inefficiencies in nitrogen uptake, providing practical insights into reducing fertilizer application rates while maintaining productivity.
During my master’s program, I developed laboratory and field protocols, conducted rigorous soil and plant tissue analyses, and deepened my understanding of nutrient cycling. This experience sharpened my problem-solving skills and nurtured my passion for creating sustainable, science-driven solutions for agricultural challenges. It also laid the groundwork for my transition into a Ph.D. program focused on applied agricultural research.