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I am beyond humbled and honored to present my capstone experience. I worked on this experience throughout my entire undergraduate career. I learned about the importance of mentorship in this process, realizing that communication and collaboration with others makes projects extremely successful. As a STEM undergraduate student, I was waiting for an opportunity to apply my learning into my own individual project. Conducting botanical history research was the solution!

 

The research process is extremely arduous and long but teaches a person about commitment and dedication. It is incredible to realize that new knowledge is acquired and added to the existing body of scientific literature. This research project was very personal and wholesome as it reflected Dr. David Fairchild's efforts. South Florida is home to the incredible Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Therefore, this project made me appreciate nature and understand the importance of conservation and sustainability efforts.

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Thank you to Dr. Javier Francisco-Ortega and to the Global Learning Department at FIU for the incredible opportunity to conduct research. I received a LACC - Global Learning Medallion Research Fellowship that helped fund my research. I would also like to thank the Honors College at FIU for their ARCH Research Program which allowed me to elaborate my research and present it at two Undergraduate Research Conferences.