July 12, 2021
Undergraduate Student Publishes Research
Duncan Miertschin, SR. Physics, recently was published in the Journal of Physics: Condensed Matter Physics. This research in material science focuses on topological insulators, which have an insulating inside and a highly conductive surface. These unique properties give them potential uses in modern technologies such as faster computers and electronic devices.

Miertschin's study looked at a specific material known a tin-doped lead telluride, which can be turned into a topological insulator at a certain level of lead and tin. Dr. Keshav Shrestha, Assistant Professor of Physics,
supervised the study.

Congratulations on publishing your research!
Kaysi Lapoint, JR. Plant, Soil and Environmental Science, is interning with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Research Service
in Bushland, TX.

How did/will your internship help prepare you post-graduation?
"There are so many skills a person picks up through various work experiences. The plant and soil knowledge I have gained, as well as some of the technical skills I’ve learned, will help me with my career in agriculture."

What are some of your daily tasks for your internship?
"I aid in the research process, making my work very diverse. I have programmed, installed, calibrated and tested sensors for their use in the field, maintained proper functioning of the various irrigation methods used, collected and compiled data, plant mapped various crops and completed soil water readings using the neutron probe;
as well as other necessary tasks."

What advice do you have for other students seeking internships?
"Internships are extremely beneficial for gaining real world experience, building connections and deciding on a future career. Before you apply for an internship position, I would recommend shadowing someone in the career field to see if it’s something you would be interested in pursuing. If your curiosity isn’t kindled, or you just can’t see yourself in that position, look for an internship that better fits your interests."
Mallori Johnson: A Buffalo on the Coast
Mallori Johnson, B.S. Agricultural Media and Communication '20, now works for Visit Corpus Christi as the Destination Services Manager. Moving to the Gulf Coast has allowed Johnson to use her degree in a place of demand. Some of her tasks include meeting with clients, planning events and parties and working with her teammates to provide the best experience possible for travelers.

"I absolutely love my job! It challenges me to think out of the box
and be creative," Johnson said.

Johnson loves meeting visitor's needs. Each individual has different expectations and desires, and Johnson is excited to get to know her
clients and, "blow them away".

Her time at West Texas A&M University has more than prepared her for this career she has pursued.

"It's been amazing to put my degree to use and have fun at the same time," Johnson said.

Thank you for representing the Paul Engler College of
Agriculture and Natural Sciences so well in the real world!
"If you really want to do something, you'll find a way.
If not, you'll find an excuse."
-Jim Rohn