The PLA Department has grown by two! Get to know the new student staffers, through a quick Q + A. Read below to find out the two Wisconsinites academic and personal interests, as well as their role within the Department.
ZACH MEYER
Name: Zach Meyer
Title: Student Hourly 
Hometown: Waunakee, WI
Educational / Professional Background: I have a BSLA from UW Madison.
How did you get into your field of research? I got interested in environmental behavior and health through my experiences outdoors and with veterans.
What attracted you to UW-Madison? Madison is close to home and the department has awesome faculty and staff.
Which common phrase or saying best describes you? I think “let the cat out of the bag” is a good one, I am very bad at keeping secrets.
What is one thing others around you should know about you? I tend to be a little goofy and sarcastic, I really enjoy humor.
Favorite Artist / TV show / Book / Movie you’ve experienced within this past year? I recently watched The Hunt on BBC, I really enjoyed watching animals tracking and hunting.
KAYLA WANDSNIDER
Name: Kayla Wandsnider
Title: Student Hourly Assistant
Hometown: Milwaukee, WI
Educational / Professional Background: I am in the URPL program. I have BS in Biology with minors in Spanish and Environmental Studies from the University of WI- La Crosse, and a Certificate in GIS from the University of Denver.
How did you get into your field of research? It’s kind of a long story, but I decided to enter into the Urban and Regional Planning field because I think that it will allow me to pursue a career in environmental sustainability.
What attracted you to UW-Madison? Most of my family has graduated from UW Madison and I have always wanted to come here. Also, ya can’t beat in-state tuition!
Which common phrase or saying best describes you? It’s maybe not a quote that describes me, but it’s something that I aspire to. “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets our soul on fire.”
What is one thing others around you should know about you? I am a “yes” gal and a people pleaser. I also love being active and getting out and about and doing things. So, if you need a buddy to do something with, I’m your gal!
Favorite Artist / TV show / Book / Movie you’ve experienced within this past year? I love Disney movies/ animated movies (I’m not sure what you call a Disney movie that isn’t made by Disney). I watched The Incredibles about 5 times in preparation to see The Incredibles II and I STILL haven’t seen it yet!