Interdisciplinarity

NSF REU: Understanding Coastal Ecosystems

During summer 2021, I had the privilege of participating in an NSF-funded research experience at Florida International University. While I was there, I worked with the Architecture department to develop mix designs for eco-friendly concrete. The ultimate goal of the project was to integrate architecture with the coastal environment, promoting the growth of microorganisms and overall biodiversity at the coast. The REU staff also organized workshops and excursions for the REU cohort, which gave us the opportunity to grow professionally and explore Miami!
This was my first hands-on research experience, and I am so thankful that I was able to participate in an REU before graduating. Because I was working with the architecture department at FIU, I found ways to bring my unique skillset as a mechanical engineer to the table. In addition to that, the focus of the REU was coastal ecosystems, which is an area that I had no prior experience in. I was able to learn so much not only from staff but from the other students within my cohort who came from a range of disciplines and universities.