4 August 2006
Katherine
Faust
Louisiana
State University
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Dear NMNH Office of the Director,
I would like to take this opportunity to express my extreme gratitude
for your financial support of my research this summer through the Smithsonian's
Research Training Program (RTP). I cannot begin to tell you what an
incredible experience it has been. For an undergraduate such as myself,
the opportunity to conduct research at the National Museum of Natural
History has been nothing less than a dream come true. What I have learned
and experienced this summer will forever have an effect on my life and
career.
As someone who has been interested in birds for many years, I was
thrilled at the prospect of working among the ranks of the Smithsonian
ornithologists, including those from the in-residence affiliated agencies
such as the US Geological Survey. To have such a patient and encouraging
mentor as Dr. Terry Chesser only made this experience even more positive.
I have learned an incredible amount about birds in my short time here.
The Research Training Program has enhanced this knowledge by exposing
me to all the natural science fields through its series of tours and
seminars. I feel that when I leave here, I will be a very different
person than the inexperienced undergrad who arrived in May: a much more
competent, aware, and experienced student, well-equipped to pursue my
field both academically and professionally in the coming years.
None of this would have been possible without the financial support
of the program. I will never be able to properly thank you for this
opportunity. You have had a profound effect on my future, and I know
that in everything I pursue from here forward, I will be indebted to
you and your remarkable generosity. This experience has confirmed my
passion for the sciences, and my continued research efforts will be
a testament to your support. Thank you so much.
Sincerely,
Katherine Faust
Research Training Program
RTP Class of '06