- MEM Environment Concentration: Coastal and Marine Systems (CAMS)
- MEM Management Concentration: Environmental Analytics and Modeling (EAM)
- Expected Graduation Date: May 2026
What is your previous work experience, if any? Please describe briefly.
After completing my undergraduate degree in 2020, I was an Oregon Sea Grant Summer Scholar. There I worked with USDA scientists on a project relating to oyster aquaculture areas and invasive burrowing shrimp. From there I was a biology intern with USGS in Virginia working on a floodplain connectivity project. Since then, I have been working in microbiology laboratories in my hometown of Louisville, KY.
Why did you choose the Nicholas School's professional master's degree program(s)?
The ability to have different concentration areas really drew me to the Master of Environmental Management program at the Nicholas School. Being able to take courses from both environmental and management areas along with the certificate programs offered will allow me to be a more well-rounded applicant when it comes time to apply for jobs post-graduation.
Do you have any areas of interest or special focus you plan to undertake during your time at the Nicholas School and Duke?
I am interested in how natural resources, especially marine fisheries and aquaculture areas are impacted by climate change and other human influences. I would like to learn more about sustainable solutions and management responses with respect to natural resources. I am also particularly interested in the geospatial analysis certificate program and how GIS can be applied to environmental solutions.
What are your career aspirations?
I would like to work with a government organization addressing issues related to natural resource management. I am particularly interested in marine systems and maintaining sustainable fisheries with the various environmental factors influencing them.