The mentoring partnership that I have with Dr. Kuzma and Dr. Gould fueled my interest in biotechnology. Having an opportunity to work in a lab made me more aware of the work of researchers in biotechnology. As a consumer, I see the results of their research such as increased crop yield and development of government regulations on GMO. Now, I have a greater appreciation of the work done by scientists like Dr. Gould and Dr. Kuzma, who have a deep appreciation of farmers and the health of our society.

The Kenan Fellow experience made me aware of the role of exploration in developing vital research projects. For example, when GM crops were first used on the US market for feed production, Dr. Gould developed a method of implementing these crops to ensure the best productivity for farmers. At the same time he started collecting moths around these areas where Bt crops were being used. When I asked him why he just said, “I thought I would be able to use them to study in the future.” He expected the technology to be available for him to develop the evolutionary selection component to his research. Dr. Gould’s success as a researcher was in his ability to foresee future possibilities in his area of research.

In my work with Dr. Kuzma, I got to see the work of social scientists. Dr. Kuzma’s team worked to better understand how society feels biotechnology should be used. Her research will certainly play a key role in the way our government and regulatory commissions control the use of new biotechnology being introduced to the public. While working with Dr. Kuzma, I gained an appreciation of her work and how important it is to understanding the impact new biosynthetic technologies will have on our society.

Although, I found the externship intimidating at times, this partnership has broadened my understanding of bioengineering by giving me a greater appreciation of the diversity of work done by researchers. The partnership has inspired me to continue my study in the field of biotechnology. Having the freedom to explore an area with direct contact with research scientists has also changed the way I teach. I now strive to provide more time for students to explore and investigate new areas of study. In fact, it is having the freedom to explore that inspires us to grow in ways we had not expected.