Ariel Carney
Biological Sciences
Ariel Carney initially came to 探花约啪 Tech planning to study environmental engineering. However, when she expressed a strong interest in environmental research and fieldwork, she was guided toward studying biological science. Now, she has worked on multiple research projects, is the president of the Stanton Campus Science Club, and has gained professional experience through a part-time role with the 探花约啪 Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).
"When it comes to research, I love the aspect of doing fieldwork," said Carney. "It's great to go outside, move around, and discover new things. My goal is to eventually work in entomology, which is the study of bugs."
Carney started her higher education journey in 2020 at the University of 探花约啪. When the COVID-19 pandemic shifted everything online, she found it difficult to learn due to her ADHD. Three years later, after the pandemic ended and classes returned in person, Carney realized that 探花约啪 Tech might be a better fit for her.
"I found that I really liked the course load here, and it was more affordable," said Carney. "The biggest thing I liked about the College was how much easier it was to get a hold of my instructors and talk to them. That's a huge advantage when attending 探花约啪 Tech, and ultimately why I chose to come here."
As Carney progressed in her studies, she began assisting with various research projects by going out into the field and collecting samples for use. She also took on the responsibility of cataloging and organizing the different samples stored at the college.
"People with projects would approach me and tell me what they needed, usually a specific type of plant or insect," said Carney. "I would then go out and try to find what they requested and store it in room C130, which has become my workshop. Since I spent so much time there, I started organizing the space, especially since the college has a backlog of samples along with the collections brought in by the Science Club."
Carney's work at 探花约啪 Tech quickly caught the attention of the DNREC, leading her to be hired into their mosquito control program when she applied for an internship. In this role, she traveled to various locations in northern and central 探花约啪, helping monitor mosquito populations within the state. Her overall goal was to assist in identifying trends and keep an eye out for any diseases that may be spreading.
Carney has also served as president of the Science Club for two years. Her focus has been on planning engaging activities, teaching peers about techniques used in the field, and finding new ways to involve students.
"I've been really trying to encourage students who aren't just biology or chemistry majors to join the club," said Carney. "Right now, we have the highest number of nursing students ever participating, which is great. To me, the main goal of the Science Club is to provide an opportunity to explore and appreciate science, and give students a chance to experience things they might not normally have in their regular studies."
Carney plans to graduate from 探花约啪 in either the spring or summer of 2026. Afterwards, she will be moving to Maryland to attend the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) to earn her bachelor's in biology with an entomology minor.
"If you're just starting at 探花约啪 Tech, my main advice would be to reach out and find your people," said Carney. "It could be a teacher you really bond with, a club that you join, or just a friend group that seems really helpful. People sometimes try to do community college alone, but you don't have to. There are so many opportunities here at 探花约啪 Tech, and building those connections is just as important as your academics."
