INTRODUCTION.
Research, where do I begin!
Hello, my name is Paula Arango, and I am in my fourth year of a Bachelor of Science in Biology. I started my research journey later than I would have liked. During my first two years at TRU, I focused mainly on academics and had no idea that research was even an option. Once I discovered it, my academic experience transformed.
I qualify for the Undergraduate Research Certificate through a variety of research experiences. My first opportunity came through a directed studies project with Dr. Emily Studd, where I worked on analytical research investigating how wildlife management area size influences hunting pressure on moose in British Columbia for the Taku River Tlingit First Nations. This project involved extensive data analysis using R Studio and GIS software, helping me develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Seeking to expand my experience, I participated in an international research internship with Dr. Laura Sierra Zapata at EAFIT University in Medellín, Colombia. This lab-based research focused on studying the gut microbiome of canines and involved hands-on lab work, including DNA extraction, PCR, and microbial analysis.
Beyond research projects, I took on a leadership role as a Research Ambassador at TRU. In this role, I served as a guide and role model, helping students navigate research opportunities, brainstorming ways to make research more accessible and a fun process for students. Currently, I am preparing to present a literature review poster at the TRU Geographers Announce Conference, exploring how religion has spread globally. This project has broadened my perspective on research across disciplines showing that research goes beyond traditional science. These diverse experiences have not only strengthened my technical and leadership skills but have also deepened my appreciation for the collaborative and ever-evolving nature of research.
