Student mentees

 

 

Lara Gonçalves

Okahoma State University

Topic of study: Community risk and resilience to environmental hazards

I joined the SatRAP mentorship program to further develop my skills as a researcher by learning from the insights, guidance, and expertise of others. I’m especially interested in gaining practical experience across all phases of the research process, from designing and conducting studies to analyzing results. Exposure to diverse methodological approaches will also support my educational growth. Professionally, I’m focused on building connections with mentors, peers, and stakeholders to foster collaborations that could lead to future research and career opportunities. I plan to stay involved in the mentorship program for as long as I’m eligible, throughout my PhD and hopefully continuing as a postdoc.

 

Chloe Hamaker

West Texas A&M University

Topic of study: Master of Agriculture with an emphasis on business and economics

In this program, I am hoping to dig deeper into the economic analysis side of my research project, while also exploring how this work connects to communications and outreach efforts. Since my academic background is in agricultural communications, I’m looking for guidance on research design and support in filling knowledge gaps in agricultural economics. I’m also interested in learning more about career paths in industry and agribusiness, and would appreciate help identifying opportunities that align with my skills and interests as I prepare for my first job after graduate school. Networking with industry professionals is always valuable, and I look forward to building those connections. I expect to participate in the mentorship program for the duration of my graduate research project.

 

Jacob Kettner

Okahoma State University

Topic of study: Biosystems Engineering, Irrigation Scheduling Using pyfao56

I am excited to gain experience working collaboratively on a team that includes multiple universities and organizations beyond academia. I am particularly interested in taking on leadership responsibilities that contribute to high-quality outcomes. Activities such as data analysis, field work, and working closely with others toward shared goals, including publishing in a journal, are especially valuable to my educational growth. Professionally, I am eager to grow by stepping into leadership roles and presenting our work to audiences who may be unfamiliar with the project. I also welcome opportunities for networking and participating in workshops. I plan to remain involved in this mentorship program until I graduate with my PhD in December 2027 or until I secure a job in my field.

 

Basheet Lukman

Okahoma State University

Topic of study: Economic analysis of deficit irrigation in the southern Great Plains

I joined the SatRAP mentorship program to grow into a researcher who connects modeling with stakeholder-driven solutions for climate-resilient agriculture. I’m especially interested in deepening my understanding of climate science, hydrologic modeling, socio-economic analysis, and science communication through seminars and mini courses. Hands-on training in GIS, advanced simulation tools, and econometric models will support my learning, along with opportunities to co-author papers and technical reports. Professionally, I hope to gain experience writing publications, policy briefs, extension factsheets, and presenting research in progress for feedback. I want to practice communicating research clearly and effectively, and build a small network across Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas that I can carry into my PhD. I plan to stay involved in the mentorship program through August 2026, and I’m interested in continuing if I’m accepted into a PhD program.

 

Alok Pandit

Okahoma State University

Topic of study: Irrigation scheduling based on soil moisture

I joined the SatRAP mentorship program to strengthen my research development, career planning, and professional networking. Learning from mentors is especially important to me, and I see their experience as a valuable guide for growing as a researcher. My educational journey is supported by workshops, academic discussions, and training in analytical tools, along with hands-on opportunities in data analysis and irrigation management. Professionally, I am focused on building skills through networking, career guidance, and support in presenting research and preparing for future opportunities. I plan to stay engaged in the mentorship program throughout my PhD studies.