1 August 2008
April Yang
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, California
Dear Smithsonian Women's Committee,
I would like to thank you for endowing a position in the Research
Training Program (RTP) each summer. Not every young undergraduate has
the opportunity of conducting scientific research at the Smithsonian
Institution's National Museum of Natural History. Your continued support
of the program allowed me to become part of this fantastic and unique
program. Few undergraduates are given the opportunity to work at such
a premiere research institution. Only at the Smithsonian would I have
gained unparalleled access to some of the world's best collections of
insects. This was perfect for my project involving the evaluation of
the distribution of a character throughout a group of moths found all
over the globe. I had a great time collaborating and discussing my results
with other researchers.
I was also able to carry on lively conversations with other scientists
during the weekly Systematists Discussion group. It was really useful
for me to hear about various issues that are hot topics in the field.
Participating in these discussions will allow me to make better informed
decisions when I start doing my own research in graduate school.
The Research Training Program also provided behind-the-scenes tours
of the museums facilities which gave me a glimpse as to how museum collections
are stored, managed and displayed. It was here that I saw literally
textbook examples of creatures that had been dead for centuries. I had
never imagined being able to see a coelacanth, touch a piece of Burgess
Shale or smell giant sloth dung. The experience was breathtaking.
Working here has helped to build my confidence and has shaped me into
a well-rounded scientist. My experiences have helped me to see what
I can contribute to the scientific community. I hope to come back one
day to the faintly sweet tang of naphthalene permeating the air and
gleaming white cabinets. I will always remember that it was this program
that gave me passage into the rich and vibrant scientific community.
Sincerely,
April Yang
Research Training Program
Class of '08
1 August 2008
April Yang
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, California
Dear Smithsonian Women's Committee,
Thank you for providing me with the opportunity to attend the 59th
annual Lepidopterists' society meeting at the University of Mississippi.
I was able attend the poster and research presentation and also to participate
in some night collecting trips. Nothing brings people together quite
like standing stooped over a black-light sheet, getting bit by mosquitoes
and sweating in the warm humid Mississippi night air. It was well worth
it though to collect such beautiful and unique moths and to hear their
unique perspectives. I have learned so much.
Sincerely,
April Yang
Research Training Program
Class of '08