Today@Sam Article

Environmental Science Major Named Regents’ Student Scholar

Nov. 22, 2021
SHSU Media Contact: Hannah Crandall

Carolyn Jess, a Sam Houston State University senior studying environmental science, has been awarded the 2021 Texas State University System Regents’ Student Scholar Award. This award recognizes students for outstanding academic achievement, exceptional leadership abilities and great contributions to their institutions and communities.

“I am incredibly honored and humbled to have received this award and to have been nominated for it in the first place,” Jess said. “It makes me feel like I’m doing something right. My hard work is being recognized in a really meaningful way.”

Growing up in Lake Jackson, Texas, Jess’ passion for nature and wildlife conservation started from a very young age, which led her to seek education related to the environment. Jess plans to earn a master’s degree in environmental science and pursue a career in the conservation departments of zoos.

“I grew up very interested in nature and endangered species, and I am passionate about what I can do personally, and in my community, to help wildlife who can’t speak up for themselves,” Jess said. “I want to continue my education and pursue a career in this field because I truly love learning, and I love everything that I’m learning about.”

As Jess made her college decision, SHSU stood out for its sense of community, something she didn’t feel anywhere else.

“I set up an appointment to talk with an advisor at Sam Houston because I wanted to know about the environmental science program, and I immediately felt welcomed,” Jess said. “All my questions were answered, and I felt very appreciated.”

Jess attributes much of her success in college to the support system found in her professors at SHSU.

“There is just such an amazing support system here,” she said. “All my professors have been so personable and willing to help out in any way they can. I couldn’t be more grateful for the professors that I have had.”

On campus, Jess is heavily involved as a member of Alpha Lambda Delta honor society, National Society of Collegiate Scholars, National Society of Leadership and Success, Chi Alpha and Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. She maintains a 3.85 grade point average, and she has earned Dean’s List and President’s List status during her time at SHSU. Jess is also a teaching assistant in the Department of Environmental and Geosciences.

Jess has volunteered with the Houston Arthritis Foundation Pandapalooza 5k, Gulf Coast Regional Blood Drive, Dream Center Brazoria County and Brazoswood High School. Because of her commitment to education and giving back, Jess has received numerous awards including the G. Scott and Mary S. McCarley Environmental Science Endowed Scholarship, Houston Alumnae Panhellenic Association Scholarship, Greater Houston Lumber Association Scholarship and Sam Houston State University Raven Scholar accomplishment.

The Regents’ Scholar Award is supported by the Texas State University System Foundation, a public, nonprofit corporation that provides private financial support to TSUS and its member institutions.

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