Katelyn Barclay '22 (she/her/hers)

Where do you call home?

Jordan, MN

What are your majors/minors?

Environmental Studies

What is your favorite outdoor activity?

My favorite outdoor activity is hiking and identifying plants as I go along. I also like to scuba dive!

Why did you decide to major in Environmental Studies?

I chose Environmental Studies because I wanted to give back to the more-than-human world for the amazing life it has given me. I knew this major would allow me to understand the world more deeply and make a meaningful impact.

What environmental issue are you most passionate about?

I am most passionate about coral reef restoration because coral reefs support 25% of the world's biodiversity. They are in direct need for help due to climate change, exposure to toxins, and ocean nutrification.

What is your favorite Environmental Studies class and why?

My favorite class was Humans in the Environment because we got to do praire grass identification labs in the Arboretum.

What was the focus of your research for ENVR 320? What were your findings?

The focus of my ENVR 320 research was coral reef restoration in the Florida Keys Ref Tract, and I found that the major threats to corals involve climate change, exposure to toxins, and ocean nutrification.

What advice do you have for first year students and majors?

I encourage all first years to explore other academic departments. I took Intro to Anthropology just for fun and discovered a brand new interest.