Hi! My name is Lisa Repetto and I am a fourth-year transfer student majoring in Global Disease Biology. Throughout my years in school, I always knew I loved science but had a difficult time choosing a major at UC Davis until I learned about GDB. I was excited to see so many options for electives that explored topics like plant pathology, environmental toxicology, microbiology, and more. The wide variety of classes helped me discover my interest in plant pathogens and how sick or injured plants can also have profound impacts on humans, animals, and the environment. This spark led me to pursue work in a plant pathology lab to complete my practicum project, which I was able to achieve. I am so grateful to be working in the Lowe-Power Lab where I will complete my practicum and participate in the Ralstonia Genomics Project in Winter Quarter 2023. After graduation, I plan to continue research in plant pathology. My experience and knowledge gained through GDB courses, my lab experience, and the practicum will help me reach that goal. 

GDB is an incredible major to be part of. Having the perspective of GDB peers, advisors, and professors with interests rooted in a variety of areas, like public health, has been very beneficial to me. Their shared knowledge helps me view the importance and impact of the research I participate in from multiple points of view. In the future, this will help me become a better researcher and I am very thankful for that!