Student Blogs & Vignettes

Karsen Henwood

ABOUT MY RESEARCH

Despite growing up in landlocked Colorado, I was always fascinated by the ocean. This passion led me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in marine science and environmental studies from Eckerd College. Before graduating in 2023, I participated in undergraduate research on the microplastics in Tampa Bay project and published a thesis exploring the impacts of microplastics on copepod reproduction. My primary research interest is zooplankton ecology, focusing on food web dynamics, predator-prey interactions, and copepods.

Why USF CMS?

A former professor advised me to contact Dr. Daly because our research interests closely align. From our first meeting, I knew not only that we shared similar research interests but also that many of my career goals mirrored hers. Our strong rapport convinced me that she would be an excellent academic and career advisor. Although I considered other options, I realized I did not want to leave the life and community I have built in St. Pete over the past five years.