GREAT OUTDOORS

Evan Russell ’20 For as long as Evan Russell ’20 can remember, he has always loved being in the outdoors—fishing, hiking, and playing sports. When he came to Regis he knew that he wanted to earn a degree that would allow him to continue his love for nature. This led him to major in biology and minor in laboratory operations management (LOM). “I knew I needed a career that would allow me to work outside, making a positive impact on the environment,” says Evan.

Evan was drawn to LOM after learning that the courses would provide a background in national biological and chemical safety standards and rules regarding experimentation with animals. As part of his LOM coursework, Evan recently had the chance to do an independent study guided by assistant professor of science Dr. Shannon Hogan, where he investigated the effects of ultraviolet lights on viruses. Evan explains, “It was an amazing opportunity to learn more about a technique that is used in water treatment—something I am very passionate about.” Evan believes that having this experience will give him a leg up when applying for internships and hopefully after graduation.

Evan credits Dr. Hogan as his mentor and is grateful for his assistance in securing a dream internship with the Town of Barnstable. “Dr. Hogan went above and beyond, helping me with my resume and cover letter and offered helpful interview advice,” Evan says. “I’m not sure who was more excited when I received the internship—me or him!” As part of the internship, Evan worked as a turtle monitor for the Town of Barnstable at Sandy Neck Beach. He spent his days monitoring the dunes, looking for nests of diamondback terrapins—a threatened species in Massachusetts—and setting up enclosures to protect the nests from predators. Evan also provided nature and wildlife education to many different groups, allowing him to gain valuable public speaking and communication skills.

After graduation, Evan aspires to be a fisheries or wildlife biologist where he can observe fish or animals in their natural habitat. “The internship with the Town of Barnstable solidified that I am on the correct career path and that there are many options for me after graduation to work outdoors and make a difference in the fields of wildlife biology, conservation, and environmental science,” Evan says with excitement.