As a transfer student, I always want to reach out to new transfers and give them early access to resources I learned about later in my progression at school. I was given the opportunity to be a tour guide for the (possible) incoming transfer students into the Geology Department. I took the transfer students and their families around our building and introduced them to various research labs while the PI's (Principle Investigator) or a Ph.D. student informed them about the lab and what work they wanted to accomplish.
I spoke with the students and their parents about all of the opportunities that UC Davis offers, not just to it's geology students, but to it's students holistically. I was able to answer questions about sports, student development centers, housing, financial aid, and the transfer process as a whole. I was also able to create an inquisitive environment between the researchers and the prospective students. Because I knew most of the researchers and their work, I could ask more pointed questions, and get them to give more details than their superficial or sometimes complex elevator pitch.
This opportunity built up my confidence in a number of ways. Firstly, it gave me confidence that my department understood that I could be a representative, or literally the face of the department to the prospective students. The department had asked me to do this for them, and I accepted gladly. Secondly, I felt like a comfortable transition between the department and the students it serves. UC Davis has provided me with a ton of fantastic opportunities and I want to share that with other students who have been in my position and are weighing all of their options. Finally, the prospective students felt free to ask me all of their questions. I appreciated that they felt comfortable with me enough to ask me personal questions as we transitioned between lab areas. To me, this meant that I am an approachable resource and can effectively help others like me, which is exactly what I want to do in life.
Photo: Dylan Spaulding of the Shockwave Lab presents his research focus to prospective incoming geology undergraduate students.
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