Student Vignettes
Andrea V谩zquez Marrero
Institution, Major, and Hobbies
I am a rising senior in Environmental Science with a minor in renewable energy and sustainability at the University of Puerto Rico, R铆o Piedras. My hobbies include going out in nature and discovering new places, listening to 80's music, dancing, reading, watching Korean dramas, and networking.
Career Interests
My academic interests focus on ecology, climate change, sustainability, and science communication. I am drawn to projects that actively involve fieldwork and practical, real-world applications, as I believe moving beyond theoretical knowledge is essential to solving environmental challenges. Right now, I am eager to explore the field of ecology and restoration while long-term, I aspire to work with an organization such as the National Parks or the US Forest Service as a scientist or interpreter.
Why I chose to Attend the USF Making Waves Research Experience for Undergraduates
I am deeply interested in the Making Waves REU program because it directly aligns with my academic background and career aspirations in the environmental field. I found the work of Dr. Rosenheim on carbon cycling in mangrove ecosystems very compelling as I would like to study how coastal environments can mitigate the impacts of climate change. It excites me most that everything I will learn this summer, I can bring back home and implement it in the conservation efforts of our mangroves throughout Puerto Rico.