From Hesitation to Hamburg: Overcoming Doubts and Embracing Opportunities

As a first-generation Hispanic student in the sciences, Maven Mercado recognized a valuable opportunity with Pennoni Honors College to gain research experience. Pennoni's Pathway to SuperNova Program offers training and a pipeline for underrepresented students into the College's SuperNova Undergraduate Research Fellows Program, providing Maven, an environmental science major, with essential skills for scientific investigation and guidance on approaching faculty mentors.

"Even if you don't think you'll succeed — just go for it," they advise.

However, they nearly missed the application deadline. "I wanted to get into research, but my hesitation stemmed from imposter syndrome and not feeling capable," Maven admits. They submitted their application just in time and were accepted into the 2022–23 program. "Being surrounded by students with similar experiences helped me overcome my doubts," they reflect.

Pathway taught them to formulate research questions, conduct literature searches, and identify specific research interests. Maven was particularly inspired by a researcher from the Academy of Natural Sciences who studies ocean acidification and climate change. A well-crafted email led to Maven joining on as a research assistant in January 2023, allowing them to continue with the SuperNova Research Fellows Program.

After their initial experiences with Pennoni, Maven began applying for various funded opportunities. The process reignited imposter syndrome, making it challenging for them to advocate for their strengths. "I adapt information for specific audiences, provide thoughtful feedback, and quickly learn new skills," they share.

Our Undergraduate Research & Enrichment Programs Associate Director noted Maven's dedication: "Maven tackled multiple applications and became a recipient of all three fellowships. Initially, they viewed their research opportunities as lucky breaks, but each success is a testament to their hard work."

Maven ultimately declined the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute Summer Student Fellowship to accept the DAAD Research Internship for Science & Engineering. This internship funded their summer 2024 research in Hamburg, Germany, where they worked with a PhD student studying fossil ostracods and climate change. Maven focused on data collection and analysis under a microscope, often listening to science podcasts to enhance their learning. Before returning to the U.S., they organized and analyzed the data for their host institution.

After their internship, Maven will receive funding as a 2024–26 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Hollings Scholar, which includes a paid internship during summer 2025. They hope to focus on ocean acidification on the West Coast.

Is imposter syndrome still present? "Probably," they acknowledge. "But I have proof of my achievements. There's no reason to feel that way." Maven plans to apply to graduate school and confront their doubts head on. "Even if you don't think you'll succeed — just go for it," they advise. "The worst that can happen is you stay in the same place you were before."