Alex Bowen is a first-year master’s student in Dr. Sandra Wilson’s lab at the University of Florida. Her research focuses on invasive wax begonias (Begonia cucullata), with an emphasis on assessing the sterility of newly developed UF sterile varieties and researching the production of a native alternative for Florida landscapes. Her previous experiences include agricultural communications, working as an intern at the Leon County Extension Office and with the Florida-Friendly Landscaping social media team. After graduation, she hopes to work in extension as a horticultural extension agent, combining her passion for communication, research, and horticulture.