This past weekend, I had the opportunity to give an oral presentation on my summer practicum research with the U.S. Air Force at my first-ever conference. I analyzed 12 years of U.S. Air Force vectorborne and zoonotic disease surveillance data, published an article that can be accessed here, and traveled north to Alaska to share my findings.
I was very lucky to receive an invitation and travel scholarship to attend the 34th annual American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) National Conference in Anchorage, Alaska from November 1-3, 2012. AISES is a non-profit organization that seeks to increase the number of Native Americans in the science, technology, engineering & math (STEM) fields through mentoring, professional development, scholarships and internships and has helped open countless doors for students like me.
Beautiful Anchorage, AK.
It was a trip filled with “firsts” for me, including my first time visiting Alaska, eating reindeer sausage, presenting published research I assisted with, winning an Honorable Mention for an oral presentation, attending an AISES National Conference, learning about the local Alaskan Native culture, and flying a redeye (my least favorite memory)!
What an honor to be recognized!
A Bright Future for Native America
I also enjoyed catching up with friends from my alma mater, Colorado State University, and making new connections with colleagues and professionals. I felt energized being surrounded by so many Natives and positive role models interested in the sciences, including the few American Indian females who serve as faculty members in science departments at colleges and universities across the nation. The poster and oral presentations were very impressive and ranged from pre-college to PhD participants.
Reunion
It wasn’t all suits and shiny shoes, I was able to check out the dazzling landscape and wildlife that Alaska has to offer. I made a trip to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) with friends and family to see wood bison, moose, caribou, elk, musk ox and lynx!
I can’t wait to make another trip to the Last Frontier, but next time it will be in SUMMER! Alaska gives a new meaning to frigid, although I’m sure I didn’t experience all that Mother Nature is capable of. I’d like to give a shout out to one of my tribes, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, for sponsoring my travel scholarship, thank you!
The Vector 