Emily Althoff

Hometown

O’Fallon, IL 

Why insects?

I’ve always been interested in insects, even when I was young, but I didn’t know that you could make a career out of studying them until I was in college. Through working with the Illinois Natural History Survey’s Insect Collection and through assisting with research in the Hanks lab at the University of Illinois, I became fascinated with the diversity and behavior of insects.

Why University of Minnesota? 

During my undergraduate program, I worked in a forest entomology lab. Through that experience, I had the opportunity to hear one of Dr. Aukema’s previous students give a seminar on bark beetle research. From there, I was fascinated with these insects. Starting graduate school during a pandemic is a bit odd, but the campus is beautiful, and everyone in the department has been exceedingly kind thus far.

Aspirations

I would like a career that incorporates forestry, teaching, and policy components. Something where I feel like I can make a difference with people and the environment would be ideal.

Favorite Insect

I love parasitoid wasps.

Other interests/Hobbies

I play a few different instruments, I like to read a lot, I enjoy home projects (ie. Refurbishing old furniture), and I like hiking.

Coffee or Tea?

Tea 100%.