Xavier Haro-Carrión
Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador
Quito, Ecuador
Dear Smithsonian Latino Initiatives,
I would like to express my gratitude for giving me an opportunity that I would never have had without your help: being part of one of the most important undergraduate programs, the Research Training Program of the Smithsonian Institution. This summer in the Natural History Museum has been the most valuable experience in my undergraduate history. Exploring the different areas, and working on a particular one has provided me the opportunity of being part of an institution that substantially contributes to scientific knowledge. During my stay here, I have had the chance to share experiences with several scientists, and to learn how scientific research is performed in order to answer a particular question in the Biological Sciences. Working and being trained in a particular field has immersed me in the environment of Science, and given me the chance to be part of it.
My research, A key to the Ecuadorian Critoniopsis, has given me the chance to learn how a taxonomic treatment is done. By developing this project I have explored the concepts of species, the boundaries between one and other, and the diagnostic characters particular to one species that are the principal tool to sort the species in a key. The key itself is way to connect the taxonomic concepts of the species, and to show how to identify the species within this particular genus. This project constitutes, besides other previous experiences, one more step in my undergraduate background, and a source of knowledge for my further studies.
Finally, working in the US National Herbarium developing a project has been an experience that has substantially contributed to my future. This program has been a guide for choosing an area for my graduate studies. It is also an important foundation for my scientific career, and has constituted a bridge to new further opportunities. As a funding source, you made this program available for me, and for this reason I extend to you my gratefulness.
Sincerely,
Xavier Haro-Carrión
Research Training Program
Class of '04