Keith Hayse-Gregson

Name: Keith Hayse-Gregson
Age: 26
SNRE degree sought: M.S. in Aquatic Sciences
Projected semester/year of graduation: Winter 2011
Undergraduate degree: Sociology, Westmont College

Why did you pick this field of study? Why were you drawn to this field?  
I was drawn to water because of the way it connects so many different elements on earth.  It serves as a transport mechanism for many nutrient and chemical cycles, and is the vital resource to all things living.  The scope and importance of aquatic studies captivates me.  I am specifically interested in the ecological and social consequences of changing water conditions and availability.  Coming from a social sciences background I realized that I wanted to understand the natural processes that humans depend on to better be able advise development and management strategies. Ultimately though water is just amazing, I love sitting next to mountain rivers or the ocean and being captivated by the tranquility and force of water and the life it provides.

So far, what do you like best about your program?
Aquatic sciences at SNRE has strong camaraderie between classmates.  It's smaller size creates a stronger sense of program identity.  There are also some very respected and influential faculty at SNRE.  Beyond our immediate faculty the school has connections with USGS and NOAA, both of which have offices in Ann Arbor. Research scientists in these agencies work with students and serve as adjunct faculty.  I have really enjoyed the attempt of SNRE to try and get students to think broadly about the way their field of study interacts with other fields.

Describe your research interests and experiences at SNRE.
My interests involve understanding the way water systems respond to changing environment conditions and exploring connections between societies and water resources.  One place where this intersection is occurring is the field of aquaculture.  My research here at SNRE is focused on aquaculture and a new cage design that may limit the amount of waste released from the cages into a lake thereby increasing water quality of the lake.

What do you plan to do after graduation?
I would like to get a Ph.D., and then become a professor at a university.

What advice do you have for incoming SNRE students?
Enjoy the diversity of SNRE and Ann Arbor there is a wealth of scientific and cultural exposure to be had in this town.  Get to know the faculty and learn from not only their academic knowledge, but also life experience.  Try to figure out why you are here and stay focused to achieve that goal.

What is your favorite environment-themed Web site and why?
www.grist.org because there are updates on scientific news from around the world, practical advice for sustainable living both delivered with a sense of fun and comedy.

How do you relax when not studying?
I enjoy rock climbing at the local climbing gym, intramural sports (the weirder the better), finding events in the community, and just relaxing with friends.