Outstanding Seniors in the College of Science: Veronica Klawender

This spring, the College of Science recognized 12 outstanding seniors for their contributions in and out of the classroom. Veronica Klawender is this semester's recipient from Ecology & Evolutionary Biology!

The College of Science caught up with Veronica to learn more about her experiences at the University of Arizona and what is on the horizon after graduation.

Why did you choose to study in your specific department/major?

I chose to study Ecology and Evolutionary Biology because I’ve always been interested and inspired by the natural world, and I really want to build a career path which allows me to spend time outdoors and invest my energy in giving back to the ecosystem. 

Tell me about a class or research project you really enjoyed.

A class I greatly enjoyed taking is Ichthyology! We had the opportunity to go on many field trips, including to Aravaipa canyon where we worked with different agencies and nonprofits to complete surveys on the native fish species in the creek. I found the experience to be incredibly informative about the kind of hands-on conservation work I would like to do going forward!

What is one specific memory from your time at UA that you'll cherish forever?

I will always remember the fall nights I spent with my friends in the Zona Zoo section at our home football games! 

What are you most proud of having accomplished in your time at UA?

I’m most proud of completing my Honors thesis this year! Switching between research topics proved to be a difficult task, but I enjoyed the challenge of learning about a new field of biological research and working to create and execute my own experimental design. 

What is next for you after graduation?

After graduation I’ll be remaining at the University of Arizona to complete an Accelerated Master’s degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology!