The lives of sisters Natalia and Camila Muller have intertwined throughout their academic pursuits.
Natalia, three years older, embarked on a journey in biological sciences, earning a bachelor’s degree at LSUS with a forensic sciences concentration in 2017. Her thirst for history led her back for a second bachelor’s before completing a masters in liberal arts.
Camila followed the same scientific route, attaining her degree in 2019 and pursuing a master’s in field and organismal biology.
Their academic paths converged once more as they both proudly crossed the graduation stage, each clutching different degrees.
“It just happened – we didn’t plan it,” Camila shared. “Graduating together means the world. We’ve always been best friends through thick and thin. To stand by my sister, both of us with master’s degrees, it’s a blessing.”
Natalia’s fascination with history sparked at age 10, learning about Civil War soldier Edwin Francis Jemison. His boyish portrait symbolized a lost generation. Natalia delved into his story for her thesis, driven by a passion for history.
“History is a calling for me,” Natalia expressed. “I’ve always loved the backstories and the history of a certain place and time.”
Camila stood by Natalia through academic transitions, reciprocated when Camila faced challenges in her master’s program.
Camila’s thesis focused on an invasive tree species, the Chinese tallow, exploring its leaves’ potential insecticidal properties. Her journey with caterpillars faced hurdles, delaying the study but ultimately revealing the leaves’ insecticidal nature.
“We’ve been very supportive of each other,” Camila affirmed.
To celebrate their dual achievements, the sisters attended a Thanksgiving Mass, expressing gratitude for guidance through trials.
Their professors, Dr. Beverly Burden (biology) and Dr. Gary Joiner (history), earned heartfelt praise for their mentorship.
Both sisters aspire to stay in Shreveport for their careers, though open to paths leading elsewhere. Regardless, their strengthened bond promises to bridge any geographical gaps.
Camila envisions teaching biology at a college level, aspiring to pursue a doctorate eventually. Natalia aims to curate in a museum or join a history department on a college campus.