Major: Microbial, Cellular, and Molecular Biology

Hometown: Mobile, Alabama

Career Goals: I aspire to be a plant breeder or agricultural biologist.

Hobby or Fun Fact: I played trombone in high school.

Thoughts from Emma

I am excited to work with Alabama Extension to see the real-world applications of the research that we conduct at Auburn University. Oftentimes, I think that the main purpose of research—to provide knowledge to inform the broader community—is forgotten. Working with Alabama Extension this summer will offer me the opportunity to reach out to farmers in Alabama and see how we can help them make more informed decisions. In terms of skills, I hope to gain good communication skills, especially with explaining nuanced or jargony concepts in more understandable terms. I also hope to get experience with public speaking and being comfortable talking without a script.

Professionally and personally, I hope to develop a better understanding of the many aspects and perspectives that go into agriculture. During the time I have worked in a lab, I haven’t had much interaction with the farmer or the field, more so the greenhouses and bench top. Because of the limited perspective I have, it is sometimes hard to connect the work I am doing with real outcomes and economic consequences. Doing this internship will hopefully expose me to field work and talking with the farmers that my research could impact.