When students graduate from Iowa State University and enter their careers, they are like birds taking flight. Annie Hatch, senior in animal ecology, has spread her wings in the classroom and on the volleyball court. Her work as a research assistant is pointing her in the direction of where she will fly next.
Growing up in Mesa, Arizona, Hatch’s fascination with wildlife began when she was young – camping in the mountains, going fishing and hunting with her dad, and interacting with nature in the woods. Years later, her interests led her to Iowa State’s animal ecology program when she was being recruited to play volleyball for the university.
Since becoming a Cyclone, Hatch has been diligent in her education. She has made the Big 12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll every semester, and last year she was named to the 2021 Academic All-Big 12 Volleyball Team. Between schoolwork, practices and games, Hatch must also find time to fulfill a time-consuming course requirement to earn her degree.