Environmental Science MS
ENSCI Student Conducts Thesis Research on Microplastics in Freshwater Ecosystems
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Alyssa Anzalone, a current graduate student in the Environmental Science Master’s program (ENSCI), has been working on her thesis project over the past year. As a thesis student in Dr. John Olson’s lab, Alyssa is focusing her research on microplastic abundance in freshwater ecosystems and the influence of agricultural and urban activities on microplastic abundance.
We recently touched base with Alyssa to learn more about her thesis research and her overall experience as a graduate student here at CSUMB. Check out her interview below!
What is the title of your thesis project?
Microplastics in Freshwater Ecosystems Influenced by Agricultural and Urban Activities
What is your thesis project about?
I am studying microplastics in freshwater ecosystems that flow into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. I am comparing microplastics from agricultural and urban dominant watersheds over the dry and wet seasons by calculating pollutant loads, identifying polymer types, and quantifying their toxicity for river invertebrates.
Who is your faculty advisor?
Dr. John Olson
Where is your thesis work being conducted?
Monterey and Santa Cruz counties, California
How is your thesis project contributing to your professional goals?
My thesis is helping prepare me for a career in the NOAA workforce. I have become more confident with my statistical modeling, GIS, field and in-lab skills. All of these skills will make me more competitive for a job in this organization as they are required for many positions.
What is your favorite part about being a graduate student at CSUMB?
I love being a part of this community! All of the professors, faculty, and my cohort are always supportive of me. I am so lucky to be here and meet all these wonderful people. I do not feel like any other university would allow me to get to know everyone on an individual basis because class sizes are so large.
Have you received any scholarships, external funding, awards, or have been published (etc.) while pursuing your master’s degree?
1. NOAA CCME-II Scholar
2. NERTO Internship where I get to work with the NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center and Hopkins Marine Station of Stanford University
3. Basemaps project lead for my ENVS 660: Professional Environmental Science work at the Rana Creek Nature Preserve
4. Natural Science Seminar Coordinator
5. Oral presentation at the AES Fall Capstone Festival
What are your plans after graduate school?
After graduate school, I hope to pursue a career at NOAA or a PhD.
Keep up the great work, Alyssa! We look forward to seeing you defend your thesis in the near future