ORONO, Maine -- Zoe Furber of Vancouver, British Columbia is the Outstanding Graduating International Student in the College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences. A double major in marine science and biology with a concentration in marine biology, she has been a member of the UMaine Field Hockey team since 2022 and was appointed captain in 2025.

During her time at UMaine, she completed a capstone project comparing ocean temperatures in the Gulf of Maine to heart rate metrics of blue mussels, or Mytilus edulis. Her research and studies as a student expanded her perspective and understanding of sustainability and corporate strategy, while helping her develop leadership, teamwork and time management skills. These experiences prepared her for a career in environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability. Furber plans to complete a Master of Science in Global Strategy and Sustainability at the University of Edinburgh, where she will play field hockey for an additional year.

Why did you choose to come to UMaine?

I chose UMaine because of the outstanding School of Marine Sciences and the research experiences available, along with the opportunity to play field hockey at the Division I level within an incredible athletic community. 

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?

I participated in a three-week research program in Cancun, Mexico, where I examined the impact of coral disease on coral species in Xpu-Ha Bay and completed a capstone project comparing ocean temperatures in the Gulf of Maine to heart rate metrics of the mussel species Mytilus edulis. I interned for PricewaterhouseCoopers Canada for two summers in the internal and technology strategy groups. I have been a member of the UMaine Field Hockey team since 2022 and was a captain in 2025. These experiences have improved my understanding of sustainability and corporate strategy, while helping me develop leadership, teamwork, research and time management skills and preparing me for the future.

Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new? 

My teammates have always been supportive of me and inspired me throughout my time at UMaine, exposing me to many different aspects of life at the university, as we are all part of different programs.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at UMaine better, and if so, how?

Professors William Ellis and Paul Rawson have significantly enhanced my experience at UMaine throughout my undergraduate degree. I worked with Dr. Rawson on my capstone project, and his guidance and commitment to his students really accelerated my learning. Dr. Ellis is my academic adviser and has been an excellent role model in the marine science department throughout my four years.

What has coming to UMaine enabled you to explore beyond academics?

Beyond academics, I have learned so much about teamwork and commitment through my four years of Division I field hockey. The opportunity to study in Maine has also allowed me to live in a completely different part of the world and gain life experience away from home.

What experiences have you had at UMaine that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?

I was struck by how the marine science program at UMaine is so connected to the state's environment and industries. Many of my marine science classes focused on investigating problems in local communities, rather than solely broader issues. This emphasis on local industry highlights the cohesion and ingenuity within the state.

Describe UMaine in one word and explain. 

Supportive. 

Throughout my experience at UMaine, every professor, coach and adviser I have come across has been invested in the success of their students. The support system within the athletic community is strong, as is the support within the College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences. I feel as though I have built a close-knit network within the university.

What's on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate? 

After graduation, I plan to complete a Master of Science in Global Strategy and Sustainability at the University of Edinburgh, where I will continue to play field hockey for a year. Afterward, I plan to pursue a career in environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability.