Sten worked with Dr. Bob Mason on his Honors Thesis: Sexual dimorphism and seasonal changes in the Harderian gland of the red-sided garter snake, Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis. The cells of the gland, used in pheromone detection, were found to enlarge in the summer to aid in feeding and in the spring for mating behaviors when the snakes emerge from hibernation. Although the gland, common to all terrestrial vertebrates, has been descrbed for over over 300 years, its function in seasonal behaviors was unknown before Sten's work. Sten had the following to say about his reseach experience in Biology and the Honor's College:
"The value of an independent research project through the University Honors College cannot be underestimated. I learned how scientific discoveries actually occur, as well as what the results really mean. The UHC Honors Thesis forced me to go beyond what I had learned in class and actually apply my knowledge to the scientific arena. The project also guided me in my future plans and underscored the value of scientific research in academia."
When not doing research, Sten was involved in many activities and organizations on and around campus including being president of the University Scholars, Golden Key Community Service Director, Beaver Buddies Campus Coordinator, Pre-Dental Society Service Director and extensive involvement in local schools and organizations.
Sten is now attending OHSU's dentistry program.
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