Rachael Muenchow: Studying nature to help environmental conservation
Grad Profile
I love that there is a small-college-feel at such a large university.
Intro by Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer
Photo by Isabella Hollingsworth-Sons, Staff Writer
Biology major Rachael Muenchow found Governors State University’s (GovState) rural campus to be a perfect fit for her choice of study. Following her passion, Rachael engaged in many activities on campus to learn all she could about nature, including Monarch Butterfly Tagging and Bird Banding, where she joined other students in collecting data to research and track the butterflies and birds home to GovState.
Rachael was an active member of the Biology Club, serving as Secretary then Treasurer, in which she managed club finances, presented an annual budget, and helped facilitate club communications. She is also a member of GovState’s chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success.
As she celebrates her bachelor’s degree, Rachael is preparing to pursue her master’s degree in Biology from GovState to work towards her dream of working in environmental conservation.
GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState?
Rachael: I was attracted to GovState because it offers a wide range of science courses which would help me achieve a Bachelor of Science, and a Master of Science in Biology. The campus is also located in a semi-rural area which I enjoy traveling to as opposed to traveling in the city. My dad and brother are alumni from GovState and had many positive things to say about their college experience while attending, so that was helpful in informing my decision about where to pursue the degree.
GovState Newsroom: What's your degree and why did you choose it?
Rachael: I am seeking a Bachelor of Science in Biology degree because of the versatility of career options the degree offers. I chose to pursue this degree so I may use it to apply for jobs related to environmental conservation and biotechnology.
GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?
Rachael: My dreams for my degree are to be able to use the knowledge I have gained to help the parts of the world I can; this includes advocating for various natural resource policies and endangered species by means of environmental conservation.
GovState Newsroom: In your program, did you work on any research projects?
Rachael: My undergraduate research project focused on mitigating bird collisions on GovState campus. Highly reflective windows deceive birds because they think windows are a continuation of habitat, and sustain injuries they later die from, or die instantly when they collide with building windows. I collected data on the abundance of birds that were found lying near windows, and made a plan to treat windows where dead birds were found.
With the help of Dr. Yunger and the Facilities Development and Management team, I used static-cling decals to treat windows along the Center of Performing Arts, Hall of Governors (Lakeside Lounge), and the entrance to F-building. I tested whether the use of circular decals or sparrow hawk-shaped decals was more effective at preventing bird collisions than no decals at all. I found there was a decrease in the abundance of bird strikes where windows were treated with circular decals and with sparrow hawk-shaped decals. The decals remain on the windows to prevent bird collisions.
GovState Newsroom: What can you get at Governors State University that you couldn't find anywhere else?
Rachael: I found that Governors State University offers a beautiful campus with minimal commute time. I love that there is a small-college-feel at such a large university.
GovState Newsroom: President Ester has said that GovState provides a sense of home. What makes GovState home for you?
Rachael: GovState provides a sense of home to me because I feel safe when I attend school and I feel comfortable expressing myself with my peers and professors.
GovState Newsroom: What class(es) do you think students shouldn't miss taking? Why?
Rachael: I think that students shouldn’t miss taking Ornithology, Bird Banding, and Natural History of Raptors if they can. Even if birds are not your niche interest, the courses were very valuable for participating in field work. I think being able to call someone by their name, whether it’s a person, animal, or plant, helps foster a deeper connection to the world that we are all part of.