Lisabeth Duval: I entered the field of environmental sciences because of their importance in today’s world. We are in the middle of world climate changes and there is much being discussed at this time. There is a need for scientists in this field who can work, analyze and see what is happening with all these changes and in all levels of the ecosystem.

Erika Montero: You are listening to EarthSky’s podcast, La Clara Voz.

Lisabeth Duval, a student from the University of Turabo in Puerto Rico, granted Cielo y Tierra, a clear voice for science, an interview during the annual SACNAS conference, Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science. In this interview she tells us about what lead to study environmental science. A science field that, as she says, is very important in today’s world and one, which needs more scientists.

Erika Montero: Could you please give me your name, the field of science you are studying, and the name of the university or institution where you study?

Lisabeth Duval: My name is Lisabeth Duval. I am studying environmental science at the University del Turabo in Puerto Rico, and specializing in environmental analysis.

Erika Montero: What made you decide to study science?

Lisabeth Duval: Well, I always felt curiosity about the origins of things and why they were what they were, since I was young. I felt attracted by science and always liked it.

Erika Montero: Was there a particular moment in your youth, or later, that made say, “I want to be a scientist”?

Lisabeth Duval: Well yes. When I was in high school I began taking more advanced biology classes and I said to myself, “This is what I like I will follow this path,” and that’s how it all began.

Erika Montero: And, was there a person or persons who had some influence on your decision?

Lisabeth Duval: Yes, very important. As a matter of fact my high school biology teacher was very influential. The way he taught the class and explained the information had impact. He was very important in the decision making process.

Erika Montero: And why did you opt for the science field you are currently pursuing?

Lisabeth Duval: Well, I began my undergraduate degree in biology because it is a general field of study that can lead to other disciplines. Then I entered the field of environmental sciences because of their importance in today’s world. We are in the middle of world climate changes and there is much being discussed at this time. There is a need for scientists in this field who can work, analyze and see what is happening with all these changes and in all levels of the ecosystem.

Erika Montero: If you were talking, say, with a student who is in high school and has not yet made up his or her mind about what they want to study at the university level, what advise would you offer regarding science?

Lisabeth Duval: Well, I would certainly advise them to look into it, to no see science as a difficult career or something they can’t do, because in terms of science all fields complement each other. Science is very general; everyone in the world can participate. Whether you like computers, or like reading or writing, there is always something for everyone. And it is not difficult or impossible to do.

Erika Montero: Lisabeth, thank you. It was a pleasure talking to you.

Lisabeth Duval: Thank you.

Erika Montero: Our thanks to Lisabeth Duval, environmental science student at the University of Turabo in Puerto Rico. I am Erika Montero and this was the La Clara Voz podcast, produced by EarthSky Communications.