Hi, I'm Melissa! I'm an environmental scientist from Ventura County, California.
Forever driven by the need to understand "how" and "why," science became a natural field for me to pursue. Environmental science allows me to get outside in order to answer these questions, while seeing theoretical processes at work.
As a first-generation college student, I have been inspired through environmental engagement as I work alongside my peers and faculty advisors. Getting my hands dirty while learning about environmental systems has been my favorite way to learn.
My current research focuses on microplastics as they move through marine trophic levels. I am looking at zooplankton to understand how the southern California marine community ecology may be impacted by the presence of microplastics.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, hiking, playing video games, traveling, and picking out just the right restaurant.