Anastasia Poulos
University of Maryland
College Park, MD
Dear National Science Foundation,
This past summer has been one of the most valuable experiences of my life,
for which I would like to give you my most sincere gratitude. The opportunity
to work in the context of a museum, where dynamic and inter-disciplinary research
is constantly taking place, is unparalleled anywhere else. I have learned
many things beyond the scope of my own field by working in an environment
that encases many disciplines of natural history. This broadening of my horizons
has enhanced my research to a new level. I have developed new ways of thinking
about research topics by learning from other disciplines.
Additionally, I not only learned from observation, but also through practice.
The opportunity to conduct your own research as an undergraduate in a place
of so many resources, both in collections and in conversation with scientists,
is a rare and valuable experience. My work on ancient people's hunting practice
10,000 years ago, conducted through a zooarchaeological analysis of gazelle
remains, was immensely rewarding and exciting. By working directly with archaeological
remains, I learned more than I have in four years of college. The RTP program
has given me the chance to take the leap from theory to practice.
The National Science Foundation has given all of the interns a chance to
rediscover their inspiration in science. Together, we have gone on a journey
of discovery and awakening, not only in our own disciplines, but also through
our introduction into others. The RTP program is unique in its mission to
not only allow students to further their own career, but to also develop an
interest and understanding in other fields. I have learned much, developed
discourse with scientists, made new friends, discovered new territories, and
for this, I give you my gratitude. The National Science Foundation is remarkable
in its ability to make dreams and new knowledge possible.
In appreciation,
Anastasia Lee Poulos
Research Training Program, 2001