Samantha Yanders - Undergraduate Student

Samantha Yanders 

E-Mail: sgy3pg@mail.missouri.edu

 

Education

 

2019-Present – University of Missouri – Columbia, MO

B.S. in Plant Science, dual emphasis in Breeding, Biology, and Biotechnology & Horticultural Science and Design

Bright Flight scholarship recipient – Top 3 percent of Missouri high school students, ACT of 31 or higher

Chancellor’s Award Recipient – ACT of 31 or higher

Estimated Graduation – Spring 2023

 

2015-2019 – Blue Springs High School – Blue Springs, MO

High school diploma, magna cum laude

Weighted GPA of 3.81

 

Professional Experience

 

2020-Present – Plant Science Department – University of Missouri, Columbia

Laboratory teaching assistant

Trained plant science students to accurately perform several propagation techniques. Efficiently graded assignments to ensure accurate student knowledge of class standing. Advised undergraduates on graduation plans, study habits, and other common concerns to promote self-confidence in students.

 

2019-Present – Gary Stacey Lab – University of Missouri, Columbia

Freshman Research in Plant Science (FRIPS) student participant and undergraduate researcher

Learning laboratory techniques, such as plasmid DNA extraction, running gel electrophoresis for examination, preparing media for plant and bacterial growth, preparing and running PCR for DNA amplification, and setting up and accurately recording experiments.

 

Summer 2021 – Colonial Gardens – Blue Springs

Landscape Design & Nursery Sales Intern

Practiced landscape design techniques from conception to implementation, including plant selection, illustration, scaling, and site management. Utilized restorative landscaping techniques to benefit clients & the environment. Delivered quality customer service for planting recommendations to nursery customers.

 

Summer 2019 & 2020 – Missouri Department of Conservation – Burr Oak Woods, Blue Springs

Naturalist Intern

Managed several native gardens, including a shade and pollinator garden. Learned about habitat, identification, and cultivation of native plants. Led youth outreach programs to encourage inner-city children to take interest in plants and conservation.