Please tell us about your degree and what you are studying.
For the past four years, I have been pursuing a degree in creative and professional writing with a minor in marine and environmental science. I have specifically been studying where those two disciplines coalesce into science communication. Throughout my time at APU, I have geared my classes towards learning the basis of the scientific method, studying field methods, and writing about technical topics in an accessible way. All of this is looking towards an end goal of working in the field of science journalism.
Why did you choose APU?
As someone who was born and raised in Alaska, staying local made a lot of sense. The state is beautiful and holds lots of outdoor opportunities. I also grew up attending a K-12 school that had about a 400-student population and I graduated with a class of 20 people, so continuing my education on a small campus was important. After my sister attended and shared stories of all the outdoor and hands-on activities she got to participate in, the choice was pretty easy for me to make.
What was your favorite aspect of studying at APU?
I feel like the professor/student relations at APU has been one of my favorite parts of studying here. My professors have felt like friends, who I can both trust for quality education and go to for further help. They also have student’s best interests at heart and often remind me and my peers of events or job opportunities that are arising. With the small class sizes, you actually get to know your professors and your professors get to know you and your work. Classrooms never felt like a lecture hall, and were usually much more like a seminar-style conversation. They made sure that you stayed engaged in classroom learning.
Reflecting on your time at APU, what stands out as the most memorable or impactful part of your campus life or learning experience?
Through APU I’ve canoed the Yukon River, studied otters and tidal zones in Kachemak Bay, walked on glaciers, gone winter camping, been published in the Anchorage Press, and gone to Iceland and Denmark, so picking one memorable moment is near impossible. Throughout all of these experiences, I’ve been able to befriend many of my peers across all disciplines, and they’ve always made these trips incredibly fun. Not only were these trips and moments educational, but because of the community that is fostered at APU, I was able to laugh and gain so much joy with my peers during them. I have heard many stories from many people, and have also been able to create new stories as well.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I don’t yet have many post-graduation plans that are set in stone, but I intend to first take some time to gather myself now that I’ve spent 17 years of my life going to school. However, I am planning on applying for either an internship with Alaska Public Media or with the U.S. Ambassador in Finland, looking for a job in communications.
