Anne Larson (Preferred Name: Annie)

Source: https://australia.stanford.edu/node/166/anne-larson-preferred-name-annie Parent: https://australia.stanford.edu

Anne Larson (Preferred Name: Annie) (she/her) - Stanford at The University of Queensland, Australia

Major: Human Biology- Focus in Environmental Science

Minor: Notation in Science Communication

College year while abroad:Fall 2024

About the photo:This was the most beautiful sunset and rainbow on Heron Island- my favorite place in the world!

Contact

Email: alarson5@stanford.edu or click here to schedule an appointment.

Q&As

Why did you choose to study in Australia?

I chose to study in Australia for it's wildly diverse environment. I absolutely love learning about wildlife, land, culture, and all things nature. Australia has one of the world's most unique environmental and cultural histories, with a vast majority of species that are endemic and found nowhere else on Earth. I chose Australia because I wanted to explore this remarkable environment through complete immersion rather than simply reading about it in textbooks.

How did studying away support your academic growth?

Studying abroad has equipped me with countless skills that I apply in my academics today. My Independent Research Project developed my abilities in teamwork and data analysis (I still reference my fish data regularly in both work and school), while fostering a deeper respect and understanding of the natural world. The classes were deeply rooted in ecology and research, incorporating both hands-on fieldwork and learning directly from local ecologists about fascinating topics. I still find myself pointing out a plant's protein structure on hikes or sharing fascinating facts about nudibranchs and sharks with my friends!

What did you learn about yourself during your study away experience, especially through any challenges or major cultural adjustments?

Australia has a complex relationship and history with First Nations peoples. I was both fascinated and apprehensive about learning more, and the program was thoughtfully designed so that we received a "welcome to country" ceremony at every new location. I learned so much about respecting Indigenous peoples and their cultures, while also discovering important things about myself, realizing how crucial these lessons were and how vital it is to carry them forward in my life back home.

Briefly describe a typical day and your favorite part of daily life in your program location.

On Heron Island, I'd wake up early to call my loved ones before heading out for morning snorkels. The mornings offered the best conditions—calm water, no wind, and large marine life coming out to feed. We'd see countless turtles, rays, sharks, and fish! After breakfast and lectures about fish adaptations and nudibranch defense mechanisms, we'd snorkel again, photographing coral to 3D map back in the classroom. Every evening, our cohort played beach volleyball while watching the sunset, followed by hilariously silly talent shows at night!

If applicable, how did participating in an internship, volunteership or experiential-based project help you grow professionally? What specific skills did you gain?

My internship with OPC (Ocean Protection Council) strengthened my skills in marine policy, spatial analysis, and stakeholder engagement. I used SeaSketch to model MPA impacts and evaluated outreach strategies through an equity lens. Studying abroad in Australia deepened my field research experience, surveying herbivorous fish, learning from Indigenous communities, and conducting ecological assessments. SCUBA research in Lake Tahoe sharpened my data collection and underwater observation skills. Together, these hands-on experiences taught me how to connect science and policy, work across disciplines, and approach conservation with both cultural awareness and ecological insight.

What was the most essential item you took with you on the program?

The most essential item I brought was a small camping hammock, we would put these up at every new location, and it brought our community together.

What advice would you give students who are considering studying away?

Say yes to every opportunity! Even the ones that feel uncomfortable. Studying away challenges your assumptions, builds confidence, and gives you unforgettable, hands-on learning. You’ll come back with muddy shoes, salt-streaked hair, and a deeper understanding of the world and your place in it.