Alexa Fortu: Nurturing her interests to become a biologist
Grad Profile
I find myself ending up in various conversations with like-minded students and professors for hours sometimes. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Intro by Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer
Photo by Isabella Hollingsworth-Sons, Staff Writer
A second-generation immigrant, Alexa Fortu has received consistent support from her parents to follow her passions, leading her to discover her love of Biology, her chosen field of study at Governors State University (GovState).
Transferring to GovState as part of the Dual Degree Program, Alexa found a space that encouraged her curiosity, joining the Honors College and Chemistry Club, a subject she chose to minor in. She was also an active member of Biology Club, serving as an officer and Social Media Manager. She enjoyed her time at GovState so much that she’ll be returning this fall to pursue her master’s degree in biology. Alexa is already looking ahead to her thesis with hopes of doing research in the Philippines, where both her parents are from. For now, she’s excited to finish out her bachelor’s degree.
GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState?
Alexa: Since I am a transfer student from Moraine Valley Community College, I am used to smaller class sizes with more interactions with the professors. GovState attracted me because of its smaller class size and the accessibility for students to communicate with professors. Larger universities tend to have a class size of over 100 students with barely any interaction with the professors. I am glad I'm able to engage in direct conversation with most of the professors at GovState.
GovState Newsroom: Why did you choose your degree?
Alexa: I chose a degree in biology because I've always felt a deep passion and engagement in science. After realizing that, I knew that biological sciences were the specific field for me. I am always able to find enjoyment in learning biology starting from something as little as cells to large ecosystems. Biology is the study of life, and I find all forms of life fascinating in their own way.
GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?
Alexa: I have always wanted to be a teacher at some point in my life but with the research experiences I have been immersed in, I knew the combination of teaching and research would lead me to becoming a professor in college education. I am returning to GovState for the Master's in Biology program and am hoping to pursue a Ph.D. later on to eventually become a research professor in Ecology.
GovState Newsroom: In your program, did you work on any research projects?
Alexa: I did my undergraduate research project on cicada specimens (Species Magicicada) collected from the rare 2024 double brood emergence. The project focused on males from brood xiii, studying the morphology of their reproductive organs and sexual selection. Since these insects have rare emergences, their reproductive system is understudied and the research done allowed more information to be revealed on their anatomy and connections to a polyandrous mating system.
This spring semester I also am employed in Dr. Melissa Plakke's lab working on her National Science Foundation (NSF) funded research studying the male reproductive system of the Indianmeal moth.
GovState Newsroom: What can you get at Governors State University that you couldn't find anywhere else?
Alexa: The community I have found in the biology department feels like a second home to me now. I am able to seek guidance in any professor and comfortably study within the biology offices too. The faculty and students are all so welcoming and accepting that it made me want to stay for my master’s degree. I find myself ending up in various conversations with like-minded students and professors for hours sometimes. I wouldn't have it any other way.
GovState Newsroom: President Ester has said that GovState provides a sense of home. What makes GovState home for you?
Alexa: The people at GovState are what provides a sense of home. I have always thought it was best to surround yourself with people who make you feel good about yourself and can only help you grow. The GovState biology department is full of encouraging professors who only want all their students to succeed and fellow peers who are always understanding and willing to support one another.
GovState Newsroom: What class(es) do you think students shouldn't miss taking and/or which professors should students seek out? Why?
Alexa: All the biology faculty have made an impact on myself and my education, but I would definitely like to shoutout Dr. Melissa Plakke and Dr. John Yunger.
Dr. Plakke is the first professor I have ever done research with, and she was so supportive, motivating, and insightful about the entire process. I don't know how I would have done any of my research without her. She also hired me as a research assistant in her lab funded by the NSF, which is also another experience I would not find anywhere else. Dr. Plakke will always have an integral role in my academic journey.
Dr. Yunger is another professor I'd like to highlight because his classes are always unique and engaging for me. I have taken his Raptors, Mammalogy, and Ecology class and each time it was a blast. At times the content was challenging, but it was never discouraging. His lectures always felt like enriching discussion, and the outdoor field work needed for the classes always felt rewarding at the end.
I would say I would not be the biologist I am today if it were not for these professors and the rest of the faculty.