Sitting in my freshman anatomy and physiology class, my UNO professor invited students to visit his research lab to see if we might be interested in a career in research. Always curious, I took advantage of the opportunity and started learning about biomechanics research for the first time. As an 18-year-old, I never dreamed that someday I would have my own research lab, much less serve as Associate Vice Chancellor for Research and Creative Activity at UNO! However, that first small step outside of my comfort zone created wonderful opportunities for me that led me to this fulfilling career.
My advice to all students is to seek out experiential experiences that will help students learn their passion in life and how to apply abilities they were created with. The intersection of passion and abilities usually leads students to fulfilling and enjoyable careers.
ORCA seeks to support students in their efforts to explore research and creative opportunities, and to provide professional development that will contribute to their career goals. Research and creative activity experiences help students develop intangible skills necessary for success in the workforce, which may not be acquired through coursework alone.
Skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving, persistence, and curiosity. I hope the programs we offer in ORCA can support your UNO journey to graduation and beyond.
Feel free to reach out with comments and suggestions about how we can better support your research or creative activity success.
Sara A. Myers, Ph.D.
Associate Vice Chancellor for Research and Creative Activity