Alison Ramirez, Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, Sophomore, 2023

Three words to describe me: Curious, determined, ambitious

What are your future plans and/or goals?

My future goals are to be work in a lab conducting research and make a scientific contribution/discovery.

In what ways has engaging in undergraduate research impacted your future goals and plans?

Engaging in undergraduate research has impacted my future goals in that it made me realize that I love being in the lab environment and that it is something I want to do long-term. Being exposed early on to research and gaining hands on experience has also made me a more confident and prepared person which is always beneficial for the future.

What contribution(s) will your research make to your field of study?

I am not sure what contributions I would like to make just yet but broadly I'd like to study behaviors or mental disorders and overall why we act the way we do or the effects that events have on us mentally and make contributions in those areas.

What preparation and research experience did you have before applying to your research program?

I previously had been a part of USC's Young Researchers Program (YRP) in 2018, the summer before my senior year of high school, where I was able to work with a Ph.D. student to help them conduct their scientific research project.

Then, upon entering UC Davis I became part of an NPB lab where I still am working at and help conduct research with the rock dove as our model organism.

What advice do you have for other undergraduate students seeking research experiences?

My main advice would be to just do it. I know it can be scary to apply and talk to faculty but just do it because you never know what it can lead to. In general, interact with your professors and even your TAs because they are most likely familiar with research and if they aren't it's a high chance they know others who are. So, just network with others as networking is key to being able to discover a lot of different opportunities. Don't be afraid to ask others and be open minded and don't let one negative experience dictate your abilities or actions.

Alison has this to say about the CAMP program:
"As a researcher, there is always room for growth and to learn something new and CAMP not only provides that space but encourages us to do so and gain confidence in ourselves."