Nathan Cochran

“I want to continue my journey in vertebrate paleontology through several graduate programs. Following their completion, I’d love to remain in academia, where I can continue my research.”

“Without Professor Thomas Carr and Professor Megan Seitz as mentors, I would not be the man I am today. Both faculty members ensured that I was prepared for the years ahead of me. They were always willing to chat and teach me how to be a proper academic. I recommend chatting with Prof. Carr because his philosophical perspectives can often lead you to a new understanding of the world.”

“My favorite course has been Independent Study with Prof Carr. Getting free rein to formulate my research and travel to the Field Museum in Chicago to collect my data was an unforgettable experience that will be the cornerstone of any future research I conduct post-graduation.”

“Through the Biology Department, I received a fellowship at the Dinosaur Discovery Museum as a fossil preparatory. I’ve spent the past semester cleaning the fossils brought back from previous Carthage field seasons in southern Montana. Whether it’s a Triceratops frill fragment, an ancient turtle’s belly, or a Tyrannosaurus’s frightening teeth, I’ve enjoyed my time uncovering the ancient past.”

“I got the opportunity to present my undergraduate research at the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology’s annual meeting in Toronto, Canada during my senior year. Getting to meet researchers I cited and potential graduate advisors while presenting my data was an unforgettable experience that makes me stand out in graduate school applications.”

“My favorite spot on campus is the David A. Straz Jr. Center. It’s a nice, quiet place to study during finals week.”

“8-year-old Nathan would go nuts realizing that I am doing exactly what I dreamed of as a child. I mean, what kid doesn’t love dinosaurs?”

“If you love the natural world, then a biology major is the right fit for you! I recommend volunteering at the Carthage Institute of Paleontology’s fossil preparation lab, as it’s a blast and looks fantastic on a CV or resume after you graduate. For more grim advice, be prepared for Organic Chemistry, as it can be the most challenging course during your undergraduate experience.”

“Carthage has one of the few undergraduate paleontology programs in the country. With a field course, fossil preparation lab, and a museum full of giant predatory dinosaurs, Carthage seemed like a no-brainer.”