Sarah E Bengston

I grew up in Connecticut and have always had an interest in being outdoors and in animals. I've owned and competed with horses for years and spent several years training to have a career in working with them. However, during this training I realized that my true interest was in the science behind understanding why horses do what they do. This inspired me to move to Tennessee and pursue my undergraduate degree with a focus in animal behavior. Moving to Arizona to pursue my PhD was an easy choice for me. I loved the climate, the people and the school. I really enjoy using insects in my research, both because they allow me to ask interesting questions, but also because they allow me great chances for outreach. Participating in events such as the Arizona Insect Festival allows me to influence the next generation of scientists and teach them that insects are an important part of our ecosystem and our lives, not simply something to be squished with a shoe. When I'm not busy with my teaching or research duties I still love to take my horses out for rides in the desert or playing with my rescue dogs.

July 2013