Martha Young, M.S. (she/her)

I believe in promoting a growth mindset, meaning intelligence is not a fixed trait but expands and evolves over time. Practicing this mindset encourages students to challenge perceptions of their academic strengths and weaknesses and acknowledge there is always more to learn, with some subjects simply taking longer to grasp. As a teacher, I encourage students to work through difficult concepts and realize challenging themselves is the most effective way to learn and grow.

What advice do you have for first year students?

Imposter syndrome is a universal challenge everyone must overcome. When beginning something new, especially academically, it is common for students to believe they do not belong in a space because of perceived intelligence, preparedness or background. It can feel like everyone around you knows what they are doing, but more often than not your peers are experiencing the same self-doubt. The best way to reduce feelings of imposter syndrome is to talk about them. Reach out to friends or faculty, many of whom have experienced these feelings, and remember you belong here!

My research training is in ecology and phenotypic plasticity. I have studied how environmental conditions such as those at high elevation impact an organism’s development. Specifically, I have examined development in freshwater jellyfish, dragonflies and damselflies.