Alejandra Kaplan '16

The Impact of Land Preservation on Water Quality in the Lehigh River Watershed

Major/minor: Double Major in Biochemistry and Spanish
Hometown: Morristown, NJ
Project mentor: Dr. Frank Kuserk

Briefly describe your SOAR project.
I looked at the relationship between macroinvertabrates and fishes in watersheds and the water quality. This is possible because each macroinvertebrate or fish has a specific tolerance level for pollution, which gives us insight into the pollution of the water.
What motivated you to participate in SOAR?
I have always been interested in participating research, and I wanted to widen my horizons as to what kind of research I have participated in.
What are the results of your work on this project?
We were able to draw conclusions about the pollution in watersheds, as well as the effects of the removal of dams in specific watersheds.
What are your personal takeaways from the project? And do you plan to continue work on this project after SOAR?
I was able to take away the concept that all research is important and not all science research is conducted in a lab. I would love to continue working on this SOAR project.

What clubs/sports/activities/community service are you involved in?
I am a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha, a 26 Points advisor, a HUB desk manager, and a member of the dance company, the ACS club, and Spanish club.
Have you received any awards/recognitions here?
I have been on the dean’s list.
Briefly, what are your future plans and career goals?
I plan on attending medical school to become a surgeon and conduct genetic research.