Five questions for Varsha Rai Chalise...
... Master’s student in biology who is passionate about bats.
1 Why did you choose biology?
The first thing that inspired me was back in Nepal when we studied bats. I’m an environmental science graduate with Majors in Biodiversity Conservation and Management. So I have been more into wildlife conservation and to study bats I realised I needed more skills, and thought why not study biology. Because then I would be able to learn different field and lab methods.
2 Can you tell us something unexpected about bats?
When I initially studied bats I did not know anything about them so everything I learnt about bats where like quite amazing and unexpected. The one thing that I think is quite amazing is the smallest bat in the world which is called a bumblebee bat because it is as small as a bumblebee. Also, some bat species have been known to live for about 30–40 years.
3 What is the best thing about studying abroad?
There’s so many things! It helps you get out of your comfort zone and you get to try new things. I’m quite an introvert person, I don’t feel like very easy to talk to new people but when you are here it helps you build your confidence because you are engaged in various group works and you present projects together in front of the whole class.
4 What are you involved in besides your studies?
I like to go on hikes in the nature. Instead of like going to parties I like to spend time outside. I like to get engaged in awareness activities for wildlife conservation when ever I can. And I love watching movies, but I am very picky with what I watch.
5 What are your plans for the future?
I want to be a researcher. It has been my ultimate goal since I started the University. So I want to do a PhD in bat ecology.
