Tallaperla intrigue me because they are important stream detritivores that promote organic nutrient cycling in streams. They were also the focus of my CURO project in the Rosemond Lab.
Reagan Blyth Mahaley
Class of 2020
What advice would you give to incoming Ecology majors?
I would tell incoming ecology majors to become involved in research, internships, volunteer work, or anything that gets you involved with the amazing programs that the Odum School has to offer.
What was the best piece of advice you received as a student?
Research! My research experiences were amazing and helped me understand what it is actually like to work in a lab.
The course that most changed my perspective on the world ...
Insect Natural History because I learned so much about insects and how they influence the world. Creating an insect collection was also something very special and helped me realize my love for entomology.
What would be your ideal job in life?
I would love to work as a researcher for a governmental institution.
What one word best describes my experience in the Odum School of Ecology?
Engaging!
What was the most fun during your years in Ecology at UGA?
My most memorable experience was traveling to the Coweeta Hydrologic Lab to collect the Tallaperla macroinvertebrates for my CURO experiment in the Rosemond Lab. Carolyn, Nate, and I spent the day walking through the streams to collect bundles of leaf litter which we then sorted through to find the insects. It was a really cool trip that I will always remember!
