Meet Theodora Sophia Taylor
We would like to introduce you to Theodora Sophia Taylor, a visiting student from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, Ghana. Theodora is currently staying at EAWAG to study the potential of coconut husk powder for greywater treatment. Read more about Theodora and why she decided to come to Zurich for her research in this interview.
Theodora, you are a student at external page KNUST in Kumasi, Ghana, and currently a visiting student at external page EAWAG in Zurich. Please tell us a bit more about your background.
I have a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and worked as a teaching assistant at KNUST, Ghana after my bachelors. I am currently reading an MSc in Water and Environmental Sanitation from the external page Regional Water and Sanitation Centre, Kumasi-Ghana (RWESCK) and expected to graduate in February, 2021. I have always been a lover of science as it satisfied my curiosity, so it was no surprise that I took this path.
What are you working on during your stay at EAWAG?
At Eawag I am doing a further study on my master’s research, which focused on investigating the potential of coconut husk powder for greywater treatment. I am presently characterizing the coconut husk powder, which means to look at the properties of the coconut husk that facilitate treatment.
How did you learn about EAWAG and why have you decided to come to Zurich for your research?
I was fortunate to be a part of the NEWAL Winter school 2020. That is where I heard about Eawag. During this time, I met professors from ETH, Eawag and other Swiss organisations. I was motivated by the ideas and the work that they were doing. The inspiration was birthed here.
How was your experience moving from Ghana to Switzerland and how do you like your stay so far?
The COVID-19 situation made it quite difficult due to changes in procedures. My visa took longer than anticipated. My accommodation and travel reservations were organised for me with no trouble. I must say Zurich is a very beautiful city from the tours I have taken. I have made the best out of my stay despite the pandemic.
What will you take with you from your stay at EAWAG? And what are your future plans?
These past months in Zurich have been very exciting for me. I really enjoyed the working environment at Eawag. I have learned a lot from the researchers I had the opportunity to interact with. I must say my research skills have been polished greatly. This programme has made an invaluable contribution to my personal and academic development. I am considering a PhD next and I am looking forward to another opportunity to work with Eawag in the future.