Spring 2026 Featured Undergraduate: Dan Stanley
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EmailMeet Dan Stanley, an undergraduate student studying entomology at MSU.
Dan Stanley
Hometown: Novi, MI
Major or Minor: Major
Expected Graduation: 2027
Q: What inspired you to choose entomology as your area of study?
A: I have always loved the natural sciences, but it took me a while to land on entomology as my area of study. My dad influenced my decision a lot, since he is a plant ecologist who studied at MSU and would bring my brothers and me to a lot of gardens and state parks when I was younger. He taught me about the natural world which piqued my interest in plant and insect sciences, and made me want to learn more.
Q: Are there any specific projects, research, or extracurricular activities you’re involved in related to entomology?
A: I have had two opportunities to work as a student research assistant. I have worked with Dr. Zach Huang and Dr. Chunqi Qian on research tracking honeybee movement, and in Dr. Rufus Isaacs’ lab on the management of berry crop pests, where I am responsible for a variety of different tasks. Whenever I have time, I attend Bug Club meetings, in which I have done cool things like light trapping insects at night and sampling dishes such as Isopod Fettuccini Alfredo, Chocolate Chirp Cookies, and of course, fried cockroaches.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of your studies? Do you have any hobbies or interests you’re passionate about?
A: Whenever I have time, I like to go adventuring with my friends, traveling, and trying out international cuisines. I also love cooking new recipes on the weekends. When the weather is nice, I enjoy hanging out near Beal Garden in my hammock with a good book.
Q: Is there a particular insect or topic in entomology that fascinates you, and what drew you to it?
A: I LOVE bees! I have been fascinated with bees ever since my dad taught me how to pet bumblebees when I was four. This memory really stuck with me, and sparked loads of curiosity throughout my childhood. Fun fact: Bumble queens can survive for a whole week underwater.
