SURGe

Members

Beth Simmons

Beth Simmons

Enthusiast

Biology (BS)
(Option: Neurobiology)

Education

I went to a dorky science high school near Dallas and now I'm loving life at UT. My initials are BS and I intend to earn a BS in the School of Biological Sciences (another BS.)

Research

DMC lab at the IC2 Institute Austin, TX

*Working on a neurobiological application of an artificial intelligence program.

I’m the only biologist I know who’s recieved a computer science award: http://www.utexas.edu/cons/urp/researchforum.php

2003-2004 University of Texas Harris Lab Austin, TX

Research Assistant at the Waggoner Center for Alcoholism and Addiction

*Performed electrophysiology experiments on Xenopus Laevis Oocytes involving GABA, partial agonists, and alcohol.

2002 Biosphere II Center Oracle, AZ

Summer Program Participant

*Conducted a research project involving the reintroduction of an endangered fish species

I did a research project each year in high school as well, but the details aren’t too interesting.

Extracurriculars

Me = Jack of all trades, master of none.

Generally my weekends include some wild and crazy plans. Almost every time someone asks me what I’m up to it involves Girl Scouts. This is my 4th year as a troop leader and the hardest part of leaving Austin in December will be leaving my troop.

Other than that I like to sing, dance, or find any other way to make a spectacle out of myself — I’m pretty good at balancing things on my head or nose.

Water is my friend. I own a smaller version of a white water raft I take out on Lake Austin when I have the chance.

Aspirations

Other Interesting Facts

I’ve been a certified lifeguard for the past 6 years

I took Organic Chemistry in England last summer

All four of my parents’ children are female, and all 3 grandchildren are female as well. (Those of you who’ve already taken genetics know this is highly unlikely)

I play the string bass, and have had it with me throughout my entire college career regardless of how small my room has been.

I worked as an EMT for a semester

I send way too much mail. In fact I may be single-handily responsible for keeping the US postal system in business.

I’m obsessed with Phantom of the Opera

SURGe has plenty of great members. Check out other interesting people at the committees home page.