» S cience Without Borders
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The REU program solidified Jimenez’s decision to pursue a career helping people in the sciences. While it was one thing to receive encouragement from her professors, it was even more empowering to see herself reflected in the professionals working in her field. “This trip made me feel like I do belong,” said Jimenez. “Sometimes it feels isolating being the only Latina in my geoscience classes. But on this trip I worked alongside other Latinas and it was a heartwarming experience to be able to practice the science with people who have lived through similar experiences as me.” Jimenez returned home with a newfound confidence in her path and valuable experience in real-world fieldwork. As she began her senior year at UIndy, she received some exciting news: the IRE trip to Guatemala was back on, and she would spend her winter break in Sanarate. While the research project in Mexico was chemistry-based, this time around Jimenez focused on one of her favorite
embedded program is bright. She hopes that word will spread through the School of Education’s programs and that more students will take the plunge and get excited about the opportunity. She’d love to see 10 people a year go—which would be no small thing for a typical graduating class of 30. If the first two participants are any indication, she knows the global mindset gained will make a lifetime of difference. with distinction from the Ron and Laura Strain Honors College. While she originally planned to pursue a graduate degree at a prestigious research institution, recent changes to federal funding for such universities have made that path far less certain. But no matter where life takes Jimenez next, the hands-on research and global perspective she’s gained have equipped her for a successful future in environmental justice, one where she’s making a difference for people around the world. “My UIndy courses prepared me to handle the data and conduct preliminary research,” she said. “But being out in the field is a completely different experience. It was cool to see how I could translate what I learned in class out in the real world. “These experiences reaffirmed my desire to continue doing research, especially in the field of geochemistry, as well as interdisciplinary work relating to environmental justice.” Jimenez graduated in May with her bachelor’s in Earth-space science,
It wasn’t easy for Mayes to walk through TSA at the airport and leave her family behind. But, looking back, she is so glad she did. She’s confident it has made her a more well-rounded person and a well- rounded educator, and she encourages future cohorts of Greyhounds to make a similar choice. “I would say, ‘Just go for it!’ It’s made the world feel more accessible.” Turner believes the future for this areas: geohazards. Alongside a team of fellow students, she conducted research on a small farm located on a slope, directly in the destructive path of future landslides. Her research focused on identifying potential landslide triggers and calculating the risk of one occurring in the near future.
» Maynooth
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“I learned to do things on my own, which was good for me because that was something I struggled with before I left,” Reddick said. “I’m a more positive person because of this experience. I’m just proud of the little things that I accomplished.”
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MAGAZINE // SPRING 2025
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