Sacha Glynn began working in UF associate professor Adam Dale’s urban landscape entomology research lab early last year. Glynn, an environmental management in agriculture and nautral resources senior in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS), presented her research at the Entomology Society of America’s (ESA) Southern Branch’s (SEB) Annual Meeting. She was able to present in Augusta, Georgia, with support from the VP Promise.
Glynn’s research focuses on understanding the impacts of various insecticides on monarch butterflies’ larval growth. Her research observed how monarch larvae’s growth was affected by consuming milkweed that had been washed with an insecticidal soap.
“Milkweed plants often have an insecticide that is toxic to lepidopteran larvae,” said Glynn. “My research helped find a low-impact pest management alternative that is safe for butterflies of conservation concern such as monarch [butterflies].”
Like many other undergraduate researchers, Glynn was tasked with preparing conference presentations and writing a professional journal article. At the ESA conference, Glynn gave a 10-minute presentation in front of several southeastern entomologists. She was nervous going into the presentation but came out of the experience confident. Glynn received first place in the undergraduate presentation division.
Glynn then participated in the rest of the conference. Most of her time was spent discussing other research projects with students from across the southeastern region.
“I was able to learn about what other research students and faculty members involved in the entomology field were conducting from throughout the region,” said Glynn.
Another important part of the conference for Glynn was the networking opportunities. One example was a speed-dating style event hosted by current SEB-ESA president, Kevin Chase. This event was designed to allow current students and early career professionals to meet entomology professionals from around the southeast.
“Support from the VP Promise Program has opened the door for many opportunities and furthered my academic career,” said Glynn. “This experience was extremely influential in developing belonging to the field of science.”
The VP Promise offers financial support to students engaging in experiential learning opportunities within agriculture, natural resources and related sciences. The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences is dedicated to fostering student development and success, encouraging students to expand their horizons through participation in study abroad programs, leadership roles, scholarly conferences, and other enriching experiences.
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