06/04/2026
Say hello to Ethan Hsieh, an Oxford graduate, from Taipei, Taiwan. A self-proclaimed “Ocean Man” (in the most professional way possible), he plans to major in both Environmental and Data Science. Ethan is especially interested in using both disciplines to help build compatibility between prosperity, people, and the planet—particularly in coastal systems where all three collide.
On campus, Ethan worked with Dr. Melissa Hage on a limnology project comparing thermal stratification in Georgia reservoirs, and with Dr. Michael Martin on a forest sequestration project, tagging, measuring, and occasionally hugging trees along Oxford’s nature trails. He also served as the Co-President of the Oxford Climate Reality Project, organizing climate-focused workshops and educational outreaches. In addition, Ethan was an iMentor, helping new international students settle in, navigate cultural shocks, and contribute to the Oxford community.
Beyond campus, Ethan’s path has stretched from Maine to Miami. On Appledore Island, he has investigated hermit crabs and microplastics at the Shoals Marine Laboratory, monitored hagfish, and once found himself in a very serious debate with a herring gull mother who loved her chicks more. Farther south, he has joined a field course in Florida, setting up massive underwater transects, and back home in Taiwan, he enjoys fishing and planting coral on nearby reefs.
During his free time, Ethan cherishes gaming sessions with friends and being the “Prestige” player in Brawl Stars and Honor of Kings. He also maintained small aquariums, happily cultivating and fragmenting corals. He loves playing badminton and will sometimes hum an Adventure Time tune when he thinks no one is nearby to hear it. If you walk past Ethan on campus, don’t hesitate to say hi–he will be genuinely happy you did and is always excited to meet new friends!
