Laritza Tinajero

Laritza Tinajero is an Honors College student pursuing a bachelor’s in Wildlife and Conservation Sciences, and a research technician at the Quail Research Laboratory at A&M-Commerce.

A Conversation with Laritza

What motivated you to choose gamebird research?

When visiting A&M-Commerce as a senior in high school, I first discovered the Quail Research Laboratory by seeing their trucks. I may not have known what a quail looked like then, but I knew it had to do with wildlife research. That immediately got my attention and was one of the driving factors for my decision to attend A&M-Commerce. By the end of that tour, all I could think about was making sure I became part of their team.

In my second semester of college, I received an email from the Quail Research Laboratory looking for volunteers. Without hesitation or explaining it to my mother, I replied, expressing interest. As a student, I wanted to gain hands-on experience in field and lab work, which I knew the Quail Research Laboratory would provide. I could not be more grateful to be part of a great crew that has helped grow my passion for becoming a wildlife professional.

What professor or person on campus has positively influenced you?

Dr. Reyna and Dr. Whitt are two of the realest faculty I know. They both have welcomed me into an energetic and comforting environment. Though the lab can be fast-paced at times, it remains organized and fun to be part of. They have given me insightful comments and critiques that have bettered me not only as a student and an individual but also as a future wildlife biologist. Both of them have a great sense of humor, and overall, it is a blessing to know that I can always rely on them for anything, no matter how big or small.

Can you describe your ideal role after graduating?

After graduation, I seek to enter an out-of-state wildlife biology grad program, ideally in Colorado, Washington or New York. I envision becoming a wildlife biologist, focusing on the conservation aspect in hopes of being able to give a helping hand to our wildlife and environment. Eventually, I plan to get my doctorate because my dream job is to one day research penguins. I love all penguins equally, so any will be perfect! But my main priority is to help conserve the Galapagos penguins.

What would you tell a student considering A&M-Commerce and working at the Lyon Center for Gamebird Research and the Quail Research Laboratory?

I highly recommend A&M-Commerce to any student interested in getting valuable wildlife work experience to help further their career. Quail may not be my main interest career-wise, but working with the Quail Research Laboratory has given me the necessary skills and knowledge to advance in my future endeavors. Though a lot of the focus is on field and lab work, you can also enhance your soft skills. It is worth being a part of the Lion Center for Gamebird Research and the Quail Research Laboratory because you can work in a passionate and comfortable environment. Plus, you get free lunch from time to time!

Educational Background

• B.S., Wildlife and Conservation Science, Texas A&M University-Commerce, 2025