Winning the Joan Nelson Study Abroad Scholarship

An interview with Golden Key International Honour Society Scholarship Winner and Marine Biologist Patricia Hanley
Anyone who worries that too few bright young women are becoming scientists should get to know Patricia Hanley, a Golden Key member who is studying marine biology at the University of New Brunswick. Patricia, who was raised in Saint John, New Brunswick, is conducting research into lobster movement in the Bay of Fundy. It’s just the right research topic for a young woman who hails from the Maritimes.

 
Golden Key was gratified when Patricia applied for the Joan Nelson Study Abroad Scholarship – and delighted when she won. Patricia will use her $5,000 award to study at Humboldt State University in Arcata, California, where she will assist adjunct professor Eric Bjorkstedt in his research.
How will Patricia benefit from the scholarship? Here is what she told us in a recent conversation.
 
How Will the Scholarship Help Patricia?
Patricia is thrilled that her scholarship will give her the opportunity to conduct more extensive research in her chosen field. “It has enhanced the quality of research I do by allowing me to absorb knowledge and skills from a larger group of scientists,” she states.
She also believes that studying with Professor Bjorkstedt will continue to help her make connections to a broader range or experts in her field. “Undoubtedly,” she says, “the experience has already broadened my prospects as an early-career researcher in the research community.”
 
How Patricia Describes the Benefits of Joining Golden Key International Honour Society
How has Patricia’s Golden Key membership helped her? She says that it has improved her C.V., increased the size of her professional network, helped her connect with researchers who share her research interests, and even started to connect her with potential employers. She is certain that her Joan Nelson Scholarship will give her a competitive advantage when she begins to apply for jobs.
 
Are You Thinking of Joining Golden Key International Honour Society? Ask Patricia

“I would tell prospective members not to hesitate to join. Members of the society are a unique and varied group with access to scholarships that could offer them invaluable opportunities now and in the future.”

Are you interested in scholarship opportunities? Visit the Golden Key Website to see a current listing of all available scholarships and application deadlines. Someone is going to win them; Why not you?