University of Missouri 2017
Natural Resources with an emphasis on Agroforestry

As an undergraduate at Institut Teknologi Bandung in Indonesia, I researched floristic structures of forest ecosystems and learned about agroforestry. After graduating, I worked for World Agroforestry (ICRAF) in Bogor, near Jakarta, and spent a lot of time in the field with smallholder farmers.

I applied for the USAID-supported Forestry Master’s Degree Fellowship Program and attended the University of Missouri Center for Agroforestry in pursuit of a career as a researcher and educator on agroforestry systems and management. I tried to maximize my two years of experience by taking related classes such as watershed management and environmental economics. My professors were very supportive and inspiring. I also got involved in cultural and social activities.

Studying in the United States exposed me to international environments, increased my communication skills, and taught me to become more proactive. I gained more confidence in my choice to pursue research and higher education. I travelled to Washington and other cities to attend conferences and present research. This year, I worked as a researcher for Georg August Universität Göttingen in Germany while pursuing a Ph.D. focused on smallholder farmer certification and replanting behavior in Indonesia. The program enriched my knowledge and experience.