Meet Michela Brown ’25, an OUR Peer Research Ambassador majoring in Biological Sciences and minoring in Animal Science and Molecular & Cell Biology.
What is the focus of your research?
I am conducting research in animal science in Dr. Kristen E. Govoni lab, where we are studying how a mother’s diet affects the growth and development of her offspring, specifically in sheep. Our goal is to identify differences that could enhance livestock health and production. My project specifically examines changes in the liver of the offspring related to their mother’s diet. I have recently been gaining new experience in Dr. Rachel O’Neill’s lab to learn new techniques.
Why did you get involved in research?
I first got involved in research because I am part of the honors program and thought it was a requirement to get involved. I didn’t get into research until my sophomore year, which helped me realize that research was something I truly wanted to pursue, not just a program requirement. My perspective shifted when I had the opportunity to shadow a graduate student in a lab I was interested in. That experience made me genuinely excited about the possibilities for my own research.
What advice would you give to aspiring student researchers?
When you first get into research, whether by looking things up or working with a professor, it can be overwhelming and seem like too much to handle. However, it’s important to take a step back and take your time, because you are not only a researcher but a student too. No one expects you to know everything right away or have all of the answers, so it’s okay not to know or to ask questions you might feel are “stupid”. The professors and graduate students are there to guide and advise you throughout your experience, so lean on them when you need to.
Describe the impact your research experience has had on you.
Beginning research helped me to come out of my shell and feeling as though I’m able to stand up and ask questions that I used to be too scared to ask before. I’ve become more comfortable raising my hand in lectures and during my lab meetings to ask different questions. When joining a research lab when you’re unfamiliar with the work and practices they do, you are put into situations where it is best for you to speak up and ask how to do certain things, and this has moved into my personal life where I am now a lot more confident and open when I need to share my opinion or point of view with others.
What is your greatest accomplishment so far?
My greatest accomplishment so far is becoming a MARC (Maximizing Access to Research Careers) Scholar and a McNair scholar. These are two nationally known research programs for undergraduate students that provide support and guidance as they go through the world of research, to prepare them for graduate school.
What are your plans after graduation? How has involvement in research influenced your plans and prepared you for the future?
Since I am a senior this year, I will apply for PhD programs in the Fall semester. I came to UConn wanting to attend veterinary school, but I loved the endless amounts of information and different things I could learn through research. I found a way where I can still work with animals, but in a different and more broad way. I will be applying for PhD programs instead of Masters, which I am grateful to have learned it was possible to do that. I received guidance from my research mentors these past two years in ways that prepared me to feel ready for a PhD program. I’m excited to see where I will go and experience after graduating.
Click here for more information on Michela and other OUR Peer Research Ambassadors.