Pronouns: She/Her
Home Country: Ecuador
Field of Study: MS in Biology with a concentration in Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution (studying primates)
Carla Rojas, from Ecuador is expected to complete her master’s in Biology in Winter 2026. We sat down with Carla to take a deep dive into her journey and give her advice to fellow GRS students in this exclusive Q&A session.
What initially drew you to this field? How did your experiences (academic or professional) solidify your passion for this area of study?
What initially drew me to this field was my love for nature, which I spent so much time exploring as a kid in my grandma’s garden. That early connection with the natural world sparked my curiosity, especially about animals. Later on, during my undergrad in Biology, two courses completely changed my perspective. In one, I learned about how human actions negatively affect primates, like orangutans in Indonesia. On the other, I had the amazing chance to meet a female primatologist, which made me feel even more passionate to learn about primates and their behavior. From that point, I knew I wanted to dive deeper into this field and explore the fascinating ways humans and animals are connected.
Could you describe a time where you encountered a significant academic challenge in your graduate studies? How did you approach this obstacle and what did you learn from the experience?
Going through that unknown initial phase as a graduate student was definitely one of the toughest moments in my journey. It was hard adjusting to a new environment where I didn’t fully get the academic system, the city, the culture, the language, or even the people. It took me a while to realize that feeling vulnerable and a bit lost was okay, especially when, as a new student, I wasn’t sure who to turn to or who could relate to what I was going through. The best advice I followed was to just take it one day at a time. Adopting that mindset gave me an enormous sense of relief. Now, looking back on those days, I can honestly say that everything has turned out better than I ever expected!
What is one thing you believe is crucial for academic/professional success but is overlooked by many?
One thing I’d say is really important for academic success is learning to listen to your body when it asks for a break. As graduate students, we often push ourselves beyond our limits. While I get the drive behind that, I think it’s key for the long haul not to do this to the point where it becomes harder to get back up and keep going. Another advice that I would give people is the one that my step-dad once told me when I was going through this situation: “Your body is like a car. It needs gas to get to its destination, and it’s up to you to listen to it when it asks for a refuel. I know it’s tempting to keep driving and ignore the signs but just remember—if the car suddenly stops in the middle of the road, getting it back on track will be much harder than if you had paid attention to the signs earlier.”.
What are some opportunities and resources at BU that you’ve utilized and would recommend others to leverage during their time at BU that will benefit them in the future too?
I think BU does an outstanding job of supporting students and making the transition as smooth as possible. I would recommend everyone to take their time to explore the university’s website thoroughly. I followed that approach, and it helped me get a much better sense of the university’s dynamics and resources (e.g. Rec Center, ERC, BU’s workshops, social events, etc). Also, always feel free to ask questions to professors, graduate program specialists, or even students! There’s always someone out there willing to help you with anything you need, if you ask.
Could you share a strategy or a technique you implemented that helps you achieve an efficient work-life balance during graduate school?
One strategy that’s helped me maintain an efficient work-life balance during graduate school is keeping my tasks and schedule organized. I try to set a maximum amount of time for each activity, making sure there’s a clear limit to my responsibilities so I can also carve out personal free time.
Did you have a mentor, professor, or colleague who significantly impacted your success? How did their guidance shape your path?
Yes! Throughout my journey, I’ve been able to connect with people I admire and who have been a great source of inspiration and guidance. Academically, I would say that my advisors from both undergrad and graduate school, Dr. de la Torre and Dr. Schmitt, have been mentors who’ve had (and still have) a significant impact on my success. They’ve been incredibly supportive and open, offering me invaluable knowledge, advice, and guidance whenever I’ve sought help to achieve my goals.
A supportive network is crucial for success. How did you build your support network during your studies or professional life? What advice do you have for other students in building theirs?
The way I’ve built my supportive network is a bit different from what I think most people experience. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been in constantly changing environments, which has pushed me to come up with different strategies to build connections. What’s worked for me (and what I’d recommend to other students) is to think like explorers! Every now and then, take some time to use resources like Google, LinkedIn, or social media to find academic platforms (like societies, for example) that align with your interests. Joining these groups is a great way to start meeting people and making connections in your field.
What would you say to people who are currently in their graduate school journey?
Take your time and enjoy everything your graduate program has to offer! I understand you may feel scared at first, but if you allow yourself enough time to adjust, you will discover that what BU offers will truly make your journey here extraordinary!
About The Author:
Doğa Sevgi
Marketing & Communication Assistant, GRS
Bachelor of Science, Psychology