Cutting Edge and Impactful Undergraduate Work at The Evergreen State College

The Evergreen State College is redefining undergraduate education by offering personalized, interdisciplinary programs that empower students to become innovative leaders. Jake Church, a junior with a keen interest in marine biology, has taken full advantage of these offerings through his participation in a two-quarter course and a research expedition in the Gulf of California. Guided by faculty members like Professor Erik Thuesen, Jake has engaged in groundbreaking research on the sharpchin slickhead fish, a species that thrives in deep-sea environments. The research aims to understand the impact of climate change on marine organisms, particularly in oxygen minimum zones. Jake's findings contribute valuable insights into the genetic diversity and adaptability of this rare species.

His journey is a testament to the hands-on learning opportunities available at Evergreen, where he has access to advanced lab resources typically reserved for larger universities. Balancing his studies with work as an aquaria tech and tutoring, Jake is poised to continue his academic journey in graduate school, focusing on migratory species. This narrative illustrates how The Evergreen State College cultivates a rich educational environment that fosters research and personal growth.