Undergraduate research: Megan Prouty

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Megan Prouty
Hometown: Piedmont
Major and College: Entomology and Physiology; CASNR and A&S
Research Project: Bloodmeal Identification of Mosquitoes in Oklahoma Assisting faculty member: Michael Reiskind, Ph.D.
Current research scholarship: Wentz Research Scholarship, Women’s Faculty Council Research Award

What have you gained from your research experience?  

Even though there can be many detours in an experiment, I’ve actually benefitted from encountering  bumps because they’ve challenged me to apply my theoretical knowledge to solve a practical problem.

What has been your experience with the faculty you have been working with on the project?

Dr. Reiskind has been my biggest advocate in this project. He spends as much time as is needed to help me determine my next step in my research, but also gives me the freedom to work on my project independently.

How important has this been to your college experience?

Conducting research within my major helped me to not only understand the scientific process, but also become more connected with the faculty and other students in my area of study.

How do you think this experience will prepare you for your chosen field after college?

In 2011 I was accepted to medical school. Originally I planned to seek only an M.D. degree, but because of my research project I’m now interested in applying to the M.D./Ph.D program. Conducting undergraduate research will help set me apart as an applicant, and has provided me with valuable experience in scientific inquiry.