Cassidy Hawkins earned both her bachelor’s degree in Zoology (2017) and her master’s degree in Biology (2023)  from NC State University. She conducted research at the NC Zoo for three years on multiple projects involving the polar bears, lions, and the African elephants. Her master’s thesis was on the daytime and nighttime behaviors of the African elephants. She is currently a PhD student in the Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology program studying participatory science in zoos, museums, and aquariums. An opportunity to combine her love of animal behavior and public science education. In 2022, she completed a certificate program in Inclusive Teaching practices and she aims to continue expanding her knowledge of teaching and advising. As an advisor, she is committed to supporting, encouraging, and guiding students through their experiences here at NC State and loves to connect students to professional and research opportunities. She also currently coordinates the Biological Sciences Honors Program.

Specialties: Zoology and Departmental Honors Program