MESM 2027
Bio
Since childhood, Andrew has had an appreciation for natural landscapes. Beginning with a passion for fishing, this appreciation grew into a deep sense of connection and responsibility. Originally admitted to UCSB as an Economics in the class of 2020, Andrew withdrew from classes in his first year following a skateboarding accident in Isla Vista. In the years he spent recovering from his injuries, Andrew spent much of his time outside fishing and surfing. Realizing just how healing and restorative the natural world can be, he made the decision to change his major and pursue a career that would contribute to the protection and restoration of it so that others might be able experience the same benefits he did. After returning to campus in 2021, he contributed to research investigating the accumulation of Domoic Acid in marine invertebrates. Andrew completed his Bachelors of Science in Environmental Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2024. He was also presented with the Alyce Marita Whitted Award upon graduation for demonstrating “endurance, persistence, and courage in the face of extraordinary challenges while in pursuit of an academic degree.”