October 2012 - Student of the Month - Tobias Koffman

Tobias “Toby” Koffman, a Master of Science in Earth Sciences student is the October 2012 Graduate Student of the Month.

Graduate School: Where are you from originally?

Koffman: Southwest Harbor, Maine

Graduate School: What undergraduate institution(s) did you previously attend?

Koffman: Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT

Graduate School: Why did you choose to attend UMaine?

Koffman: I chose to come to UMaine so that I could learn about glacial geology from Professor Brenda Hall.

Graduate School: What degree program are you pursuing?

Koffman: I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in Earth Sciences, but also intend to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy.

Graduate School: What are your plans after graduation?

Koffman: I hope to continue my research on the timing and cause of abrupt climate changes.

Graduate School: What do you consider your most important accomplishment here so far?

Koffman: My research results, which will help us to understand the causes of ice-age climate cycles.

Graduate School: What is the highlight of your academic experience so far?

Koffman: Doing field work in Antarctica and New Zealand were definite highlights. 

Graduate School: What is your favorite place on campus?

Koffman: The botanical garden.

Graduate School: What awards or other significant recognition (both on or off-campus) have you received since beginning your degree program?

Koffman: I received an NSF graduate research fellowship in 2011.