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Fisheries Biology, B.S. | Class of
Michael Eakin
Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist)
Employer: California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Job description: I apply science and policy to several threatened and endangered species which rely on the San Francisco Estuary for at least part of their life. Additionally, I'm a technical lead for the state of California regarding Delta smelt and Longfin smelt science and policy.
About Michael
Why did you choose this program?
I was really into recreational fishing as a young kid. The program at HSU looked interesting to me as I always had a fascination with the aquatic universe.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
The program teaches you the fundamentals of fisheries management in many areas, from marine to inland fisheries. The program does a great job of teaching students about the fishes of CA and the management strategies around them. Its arguable that i may not have my job now if i wasnt taught about Delta smelt during my time at HSU.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
The professors! It's been more than a decade since my last class at HSU, but I still have fond memories of going out to freshwater creek with Terry Roleoffs, getting schooled in sculpin morphology and genetics by Dr. Kinzinger, and lastly, the days out on the Pacific with Tim Mulligan on the Coral Sea.
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
Be reasonable with expectations! The career following graduation is one that is hard to get your foot in the door with. But if you really enjoy fish, this is a career path you will enjoy!