Alumni Spotlight: Connor Gilbert

Connor Gilbert, Natural Resource Ecology and Management

Education

Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Rcology and Management, 2018

Current Position

Environmental Scientist, Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality

About:

I am originally from Woodstock, Georgia. I decided to come to LSU to study Aquaculture and Fisheries since the specific degree was not offered in the state of Georgia. With help from the Academic Common Market program, I was able to waive out of state tuition all four years of college. Once finishing, I was able to work for the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries foundation before stepping into my career here at LDEQ.

Job Responsibilities:

I am apart of the Water Surveys crew here at LDEQ. We work on a wide variety of projects that include monitoring the water quality of bayous, lakes, and streams throughout the state. We work collecting water samples to help determine what kind of non-point runoff pollution is found in water bodies. I am also apart of the fish shocking crew for the Nutrient Gradient Inland Lakes program, which is to determine which lakes throughout the state are up to EPA standards.

Favorite LSU Memory:

My favorite LSU memory would be being able participate in Undergraduate research on the Golden Topminnow under Dr. Chris Green. It taught me how to understand the importance of thinking outside the box.

What advice do you have for current and prospective LSU Agriculture students?

My best advice for LSU Ag student is to get involved as early as possible. There is endless opportunities all around campus that can and will help you succeed for the future. Majority of my professional experience came from being apart of clubs and working for the LSU Aquaculture research station. Making these lifelong connections while being involved with the Ag department has gotten me to be where I am today.

Awards and Honors

2019 College of Agriculture Mentor