One of my favorite memories while growing up in Jamaica was watching old movies that had scientists making huge discoveries in some dark basement. This became the kindling that made me want to do research. The spark came when I began my pursuit of a degree in chemistry at Florida International University. I encountered many professors who spoke about the latest research during their classes. Many mentioned they had students working in their labs and that these students were conducting meaningful research. I couldn’t help but believe that this was the opportunity that I had been waiting for all my life.

Since I am an international student, I was unsure how to go about getting involved in research. It was evident that I was embarking on a journey which seemed to have no clearcut path and that I needed all the help I could get. I instantly thought of my academic advisor for my major, Leonard Keller, undergraduate program director and chemistry professor. I had always found him to be supportive and willing to provide much needed guidance. I went to see him, and he was invaluable in helping me to pinpoint my areas of interest.

From the discussion, I realized that there was more to be gained from doing research than I had originally thought. One key point was that research is something that is comparable to work experience. This is important to me, as most companies would prefer to hire someone with experience. He counseled me that the experience should be looked on as a means to learn more about my chosen field of study. He also mentioned that I should become familiar with the research being conducted at FIU by checking the university’s website, as this would help me to make a better choice. At that time, I had only completed a few science classes. I was concerned that I would not understand the various descriptions listed about each professor’s research. Luckily, many of the professors were willing to take the time to explain their research. This further inspired me to find my niche, but there seemed to be so many viable options. Again, Keller came to my rescue and volunteered to speak to a chemistry faculty member, Kathleen Rein, on my behalf. I volunteered with her for the Summer and learned much about biochemistry.

As the Summer ended, I realized that I needed to find a job to alleviate some of the financial burden I was facing as an international student. At the same time, I wanted to continue doing research. I realized that if I got a job doing research I would be able to kill the proverbial two birds with one stone. Again, my search began in earnest. The first individuals I approached said that they wished they could hire me but funds weren’t available to pay me. They also mentioned that it would much easier if I was a resident and could apply for the work-study program.

Just when I was beginning to feel despondent, one of the lab managers called and mentioned that he had heard that a soil microbiology professor, Krish Jayachandran, was trying to find a research assistant. I was hired and began working almost immediately. Even though soil microbiology was not an area I had originally considered, it has been a very beneficial experience. It has enabled me to see the link between chemistry and other areas of science. It has also been influential in my decision to do independent research in analytical chemistry.

The knowledge and practical experience that I have gained through research has been immeasurable and exceeds what I would have gained had I only attended classes. Most importantly, these projects have exposed me to other fields outside of my major and have made me more aware of my environment and how I can help to save it. Many of the professors I have encountered while doing research have helped to guide me in my decisions for the future. These decisions have included choosing graduate programs and what type of jobs would be best suited for me in the job market.