Sandra '10

Lab Coordinator, Sustainable Cropping Systems Lab, Cornell University

The professors in the ES department were life-changing for me, in their support and helping me find a direction. Professor Rich Bowden was my advisor, and I also worked summers in his lab processing root soil samples and collecting data. Rich made a huge impression on me, because he was very kind and very critical. Details were super important, and each person on a project felt valued and supported by him.

While my lab is working in sustainable agriculture research, my focus is quite often on the people doing the work. I try to champion that we need to take care of ourselves and help newcomers to the lab feel welcomed. I made a massive online folder of all our lab’s protocols, called the Protocol Compile Pile, which anyone can access anytime when they need to do a sampling method. I listen to students who are frustrated and need a compassionate ear. I encourage questions and create an environment where everyone should feel comfortable asking a question.