2024 FIRE STARTER >> Aspen Chamberlain
Q. What are the research areas you are currently exploring? How did you connect with this research topic?
I am currently exploring research areas that directly correlate to my major and what I have the most experience with. A lot courseload deals with how forest ecosystems interact and create systems. My current research focuses on the impact that hydrology, vegetation, and soils impact the rate of water-staining in leaves. This directly relates to identifying wetlands and properly delineating in the field.
Q. What drew you to become involved with the F.I.R.E. Starters program?
Like most other undergraduate students, I thought opportunities in research were only reserved for graduate students. I stumbled across the program through my scholarship and immediately wanted to become a member. The opportunity to get hands on mentoring through faculty that have led their own research provides fantastic foundation in the research process. Truly understanding the principle and core of performing research is the most important skill when completing your own.
Q. What has been some of the interactions that you have valued with your faculty mentor?
While all my interactions with the faculty in F.I.R.E. Starters have been impactful, Dr. Lewis has guided me throughout the entire research process. From drafting my research question all the way to writing my proposal she has been there to answer any questions, instill core foundations, and teach the expansiveness of research. I am incredibly thankful for her eagerness in guiding all members of the program.
Q. Additionally, have there been some activities, interactions that you have found beneficial with your student peers?
Regular meetings are required as a part of the program; these meetings have allowed for me to create connections and relationships with other members of the program. In these meetings I discuss my own research and can hear their perspectives on their own projects. It’s incredibly helpful to have peers going through the same research process as you and are another phenomenal resource.
Q. Will you be engaged in research this summer as a result of the program? If so, can you please share more?
I plan on traveling back home to Richmond, Virginia and interning with Dominion Energy as an environmental service member. While I do not plan on engaging in research, my findings from my own project directly correlate to the work I will be doing out in the field over the summer.