Graduate Student Spotlight: Lisandra Chacon

In Forest Biomaterials, we believe that our incredible student and faculty community is what sets us apart from other programs. We feel privileged to work with and empower exceptional students. In the following student spotlights, we will be highlighting our newest masters and doctoral students.

Lisandra Chacon is a second-year Ph.D. student in Forest Biomaterials. Originally from Merida, Venezuela, she graduated from Los Andes University in Venezuela in 2006 with a chemical engineering degree. Chacon worked as an assistant professor for ten years in the Department of Industrial Chemistry in the School of Chemical Engineering of Los Andes University, in Merida, Venezuela. Before coming to NC State, she worked for one year as an assistant professor in the Department of Analytical Chemistry at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.

Currently, she is working with Dr. Richard Venditti and Dr. Nathalie Lavoine to research the valorization of low-grade paper waste in packaging to enhance consumers’ perception of sustainability. We recently had the chance to catch up with Lisandra and ask her about some of her experiences here at NC State.

Why did you choose to pursue a graduate degree in Forest Biomaterials?

The increasing environmental consciousness and the need to develop sustainable processing and materials inspired me to focus my attention on the Forest Biomaterials program.

What is your favorite thing about the College of Natural Resources?

The community is my favorite thing in the College of Natural Resources. I am surrounded by kind people, always willing to help and share interesting conversations, ideas, and thoughts.

What is your favorite thing about NC State?

At NC State and in the Department of Forest Biomaterials, we can take advantage of all the technological resources available to execute our research project. To have all these resources at my fingertips expands my possibilities and the scope of my research.

What advice can you offer to an incoming graduate student?

I would suggest that they find a good equilibrium between their studies and their personal life, although I know this is not an easy task. It is essential to manage your time properly to accomplish your academic goals, enjoy the experience, make new friends, and do different activities and sports to guarantee your wellness. These last activities are an important part of the experience of being a graduate student as well.

What has been your biggest challenge as a graduate student?

Definitely, the biggest challenge for me has been to find an effective way to handle research, classes, and side projects at the same time. It takes time to figure out how to be efficient, especially for international students like me, who also have the challenge of learning in a language different from their native language.

What is your favorite part about studying in the United States?

Studying in the United States for me is equal to diversity. It has been a great experience to meet people with different nationalities and learn about their customs, traditions, and ways of thinking and working.

Outside of your studies, what do you enjoy doing?

Besides graduate research and studying, I enjoy reading fictional books, baking, and dancing. I used to dance Flamenco (traditional Spanish music) in my home country, which I would like to do again sometime.