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Jennifer H.

Graduate Ambassador at Cornell University

Hometown: Mifflintown, PA

She/her/hers

Graduate Program

Graduate Program: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, PhD

Anticipated Graduation Date: 2023

Undergraduate

Institution: Millersville University

Major: Animal Behavior


My Background

I am a first-generation student from central Pennsylvania. I fell in love with field biology after traveling as an undergraduate research assistant to the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Why I chose Cornell

I chose Cornell because of the welcoming, collaborative nature of the department. I could picture myself being happy here both professionally and personally. Cornell also prioritized undergraduate research training and diversity/inclusion initiatives, both of which I am very passionate about.

My research interests

My interests include physiological ecology, microbial ecology, and ornithology. I study how an animal's physiology impacts it's ability to cope with environmental stressors. Specifically, I investigate the interactions among gut microbiota and stress physiology.

My advice for those exploring graduate school

Find an advisor with a mentoring style that works for you and who will support your growth both professionally and personally. The graduate student community should feel collaborative, not competitive. Interviewing is a two-way street so make sure you also ask the hard-hitting questions to make sure the graduate school is the right fit for you.

I'm passionate about...

Mentoring Field Biology Birding Travel

I'm involved with...

First Generation and Low Income (FiGLI) Graduate Student Organization Cornell Diversity Preview Weekend Co-leader Undergraduate Research Mentor Expanding Your Horizons Cornell
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