Dan Hawkins

Degree: Master of Science in Conservation Ecology & Sustainable Development

Thesis: Ontogenetic diet shifts at multiple spatial scales in the salt marsh periwinkle, Littoraria irrorata

What has become your favorite quote?

Is Julie here?

What was your greatest epiphany in the last two years related to pursuing your degree?

My greatest epiphany was that grad school without close friends and a tight-knit grad community would have been impossible.

What would be your ideal job in life?

I have no specific career goal. I hope to work in the field of conservation where I can make a difference by working in research, education, and charity restoration.

Share advice you would give somebody entering graduate school:

Never feel bad about taking a mental health day. Work hard, but don’t stress about not working. Also, assume you will be there longer than you expect.

What are your immediate next steps (within the next few months)?

I currently live in Tacoma, WA working for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife in the Habitat group. I will be working on evaluating habitat restoration projects for the short term.

Congratulations, Dan!

Congratulation Dan! You made it and I'm sure you're as happy as I am. It's been a long haul -- days in the marsh; other days wrestling with R; other days doing your job in the NW while still trying to finish your revisions; and of course those other days dealing with me, Jeb and Ford -- and I hope you feel like it was worth the effort. I very much appreciate the work you did and the data that you collected. Of course, there were some mis-steps (and not just by you) -- in all of our projects we make mistakes and have "oh, but if I'd only..." moments. However, during a MS you don't get the chance for do-overs. PhD students do; and faculty have even more. In many ways, a MS is the hardest step, and you made it through. Congratulations, Dan. I'm very happy for you and glad that you are doing well on the west coast. Enjoy!

CONGRATULATIONS LIL'NIPPER!!!!!!!!!! You did it!!!!!! ~Anya

Dear Dan, I am so happy for you! You have shown so much perseverance! I am convinced there is nothing you cannot do. Even from far away without your community, you did it! Yay! I hope our paths cross again. Please stay in touch! All best wishes and happy holidays, Julie