For Sophomore Shane Boehne, Henderson, MN, Natural Resources Hits the Right Note

2016 Nov 1

Profile written by Sophomore Maggie Mills, communications assistant in University Relations

A natural resources major, Shane Boehne grew up in Henderson, Minn., a rural community with diverse wildlife. At a young age, his interest developed, leading him to study natural resources at the University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC), with emphasizes in wildlife management and ecological restoration. Boehne exudes passion for wildlife and learning, all while having a radiantly positive attitude throughout his school endeavors.

Two words to describe Boehne's experience on the Crookston campus are leadership and drive. Full-swing into his sophomore year, he contributes a large part of his time to the Natural Resources Club, the Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society, UMC Choir, Crookston Student Association and intramural volleyball, holding leadership positions in multiple clubs and organizations.

While studying natural resources, Boehne is given the opportunity to engage in hands-on experience. Through his special topics in wildlife management class, raptor ecology taught by Timothy Driscoll, Boehne and his fellow classmates capture and handle the birds of prey to evaluate and observe their anatomy. Picking a favorite professor is almost impossible for Boehne, however; Phil Baird, professor in natural resources, and George French, choir director, have both inspired and supported him in all his activities. Boehne also obtained a job in the Natural Resources Department serving as a lab assistant.

Boehne didn't miss a beat and jumped right into a summer internship after completing freshman year. He spent his summer traveling to 44 different counties in southeast Minnesota through his internship at MinnAqua, New Ulm, Minn., DNR headquarters. MinnAqua is a statewide education program designed to teach angling recreation and stewardship as well as the ecology and conservation of aquatic habitats. Through his work in the program, Boehne had the opportunity to educate 867 youth with various programs covering the basics, tips, and tricks about fishing and aquatic ecosystems.

Looking into the future, Boehne is open-minded when searching for another internship and potential career. After graduation, he hopes to work in his field of study, live a balanced life with a family and career, while enjoying his favorite hobbies: singing, fishing, hunting and horseback riding. UMC has proven to be an excellent fit for Boehne incorporating hands-on training in his career field to finding his inner musician.