STEM and Undergraduate Research with Hailey

Transcript

It’s time to meet Hailey, a senior environmental earth science major with a political science minor. Hailey is a great example of how Eastern athletes are students first and foremost, shining on and off the field. She’s gonna share her journey from the soccer field to the mountains of Spain. You’re up, Hailey.

– Thanks, Alex. I knew from a young age that I loved the outdoors, so when it came time to choose a career path, environmental science was an easy fit. My lifelong passion for geology has grown in my years at Eastern Connecticut State University, and I’m flourishing in a department that encourages undergraduate research. Eastern’s hands-on approach to instruction allows for STEM majors to explore beyond the typical classroom setting. As an environmental earth science student, many classes involve onsite testing, surveying, analysis of water quality, and more. As an Honors student, I’m also allowed the opportunity to complete a thesis project spanning over my four years at Eastern. With the help of my faculty mentor, I conducted my thesis research on a 10-day site trip to the South Central Pyrenees of Spain. My professor, a fellow student, and I hiked through the Spanish mountains. It was a life-changing experience. Honors scholars present their thesis research in the fall of their senior year, and I gained future insights by watching my classmates present at the 2024 Geological Society of America Conference. Eastern pushes and encourages students to expand their horizons and enter the professional world in exciting ways. I’m also a member of the women’s soccer team, and my professors are consistently offering support not only when I’m on the field but also behind the scenes in the classroom. Eastern’s Environmental Earth Science Program has opened doors that I didn’t think existed for me. The confidence I’ve drawn from my faculty mentors and peers has allowed me to dream beyond my undergraduate degree. I feel well prepared for professional lab, research, and occupational settings. Back to you, Alex.

– Hailey, you are a force both on the field and in your research. From soccer to sustainability, it’s clear you’ve made the most of your time at Eastern, and we couldn’t be prouder. Keep chasing those dreams, Hailey. Thanks again.