Name: Matthew Russell
Hometown: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Major: Water Science/Environmental Restoration Science
Anticipated date of graduation: May, 2017
Why did you decide to come to University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
I decided to attend UNL because in Sioux Falls, the norm for high schoolers that want to attend college is to attend either SDSU or USD. I wanted to branch out and meet new people, have new experiences, and give myself the best opportunity to make as many connections as possible.
What is your favorite thing about the university?
My favorite thing about UNL is undoubtedly the culture for hard work and innovation that surrounds the school. Specifically with East Campus, the people that I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with have been some of the most hard working and creative people that I have ever met, but at the same time that doesn’t stop them from having fun and making the most of all of the relationships that they have built.
What is your favorite class and why?
My favorite class that I have taken is Stream and River Ecology. This class allowed us to not only learn more about the ins-and-outs of aquatic ecology, but it also provided the opportunity to get out into a stream and collect field samples, just like if you were doing it for your job.
What are your plans following graduation?
My plans following graduation are to either attend graduate school here at Nebraska, or to find a job in environmental sciences.
What is life like outside of school?
Life outside of school is hectic, but fun. Last year I began coaching soccer at Lincoln Southwest High School and that takes up a large portion of my time, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Other than coaching, the rest of my time is dedicated to hanging out with my friends and playing soccer and basketball.
Natural Resources