After graduating from UNH with a bachelor’s degree in horticulture and agronomy (a major most similar to the one currently titled “environmental horticulture”), attending graduate school for publishing and communications, and several years spent working in the corporate publishing world, I am both relieved and grateful to be back in an academic setting. The energy of the students and the intellectual stimulation found in this environment make me, I believe, a better person and a better editor. Throughout the year I have been constantly impressed by the ideas presented by students, the advanced level of their research, and most importantly, their enthusiasm and desire to succeed.

Writing an article, brief or commentary for Inquiry requires our student authors to go above and beyond their academic requirements and to think “outside the classroom” in order to effectively convey their research to a more general audience. This is not an easy task. It takes a lot of initiative and dedication, especially when combined with the normal exams, theses presentations, and more enjoyable things such as spring break.