Growing up alongside the mighty Mississippi River in Winona, Minn., Mitch Weegman developed a deep love for the outdoors, often duck hunting and walleye fishing in the many swamps surrounding the "big muddy."
All those hours spent sitting in duck blinds and boats weren't just about being on the hunt, however. Even in high school, the senior wildlife and fisheries major was looking to combine his love for science with his love for the outdoors.
From the seventh grade through his senior year in high school, Mitch and his twin brother Matt conducted research into the effects of contaminants in bluebill ducks and had their findings published in the Journal of Wildlife Management.
At Mississippi State, Mitch saw the opportunity to continue researching the bluebill, also known as the lesser scaup, and has excelled in his pursuit, earning a national Goldwater Scholarship. He is a member of the Shackouls Honors College, the College of Forest Resources Dean's Council, and the Bulldog track team.
"Wildlife is a precious resource and it is something we need to work hard to preserve for future generations," Mitch said. "Coming to Mississippi State gave me the opportunity to continue the research I had already been doing while working with instructors and professors who are as passionate about the outdoors as I am."