Originally from Texas, Frank Salazar is a first-year PhD student in the College of Veterinary Medicine’s Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience program. Frank earned his bachelor’s degree in neuroscience from the University of Texas at Dallas. Now at WSU, his research focuses on the effects of adolescent cannabis use on impulsive behavior.
He recently took some time to discuss his research and early experiences and impressions of WSU.
Can you describe your current research and a real-world problem it aims to address?
My rotation project aims to characterize the effects of cannabis use on impulsive behavior during adolescence. This research aims to address gaps in the literature pertaining to cannabis use at adolescence vs adulthood, the persistent behavioral differences seen following exposure, and whether this effect is sex dependent.
What are your long-term career goals?
Being at the start of my PhD journey, it is hard to say if I’ll gravitate toward industry or academia in the long term. However, as of now, I feel academia would allow me the opportunity to “give back” and provide mentorship to the next generation of scientists.
Why did you choose WSU over other graduate programs?
For me, it was largely due to research interest and mentorship. Out of the schools I was admitted to, WSU had more ongoing research that I could get excited about, but more importantly, I found potential mentors here I really connected with. As I was once told, “pick the mentor, not the science.”
What has been your favorite thing about WSU and the College of Veterinary Medicine?
The thing I’ve enjoyed most about WSU and CVM has been the open and collaborative environment fostered amongst the labs. Science is meant to be collaborative, and I feel that is really embodied here,
How does receiving a stipend impact your ability to focus on your studies and research?
During my master’s, I volunteered as a graduate research assistant, so I had to work a non-academic job to keep financially afloat and this could be really challenging at times. Receiving a stipend means I don’t need to stretch myself thin in order to balance financials and career development.
What is it like living in Pullman?
I’ve enjoyed living in Pullman so far. It reminds me of my hometown about 10-15 years ago. I love how quaint Pullman is, and that there’s nature everywhere. The weather being so much nicer than back home is a cherry on top.
What would you say to prospective graduate students considering the College of Veterinary Medicine?
I would say that if you’re interested in doing neat research and also want to feel like you have departmental support, then this is the place for you. The people you’ll work with are great and willing to help you, and the faculty truly want to see you succeed.