Matthew Schwartz

My past work experiences and commitment to the improving the environment showed me that I needed more than just a traditional Master’s degree and the PSM program at Oregon State offered the inter-disciplinary approach to education I wanted. I received my undergraduate degree in marine biology from the College of Charleston in South Carolina and following graduation entered the Peace Corps.  I served in the country of Zambia as an aquaculture extension agent for two years and extended my service for an additional year serving as provincial supervisor for volunteers.  After returning to the states I worked in various field positions collecting data for non-profit, state, and federal government projects focusing on threatened or endangered species.  In between field positions I have accrued a significant amount of time working in the bicycle retail industry as a mechanic and salesperson.  I look forward expanding my knowledge and experience in areas of both science and business while obtaining my degree.  My ultimate goal is to apply my unique experiences and skills to investigate sustainable ecological solutions that can help steer the policy that shapes the future of the environment both here and abroad.