image credit: Lee Pellegrini, Boston College

Annie Haws of Boston College’s Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences always knew that she wanted to be a scientist, but it wasn’t until she came to BC that she was able to fully explore her interest in geology and become involved in research. Her enthusiasm for both the sciences and the humanities became one of the defining themes of her academic life at BC.

Haws, who graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from Boston College on May 20, was named by the Boston College Chronicle newspaper as one of six “Seniors to Remember,” out of a graduating class of some 2,200 students. 

At BC, Haws—who will go on to pursue a doctorate in geology and geophysics at Yale University—majored in Geological Sciences and minored in Ancient Civilizations. Her long-term goal is to be a professor at a college or university emphasizing undergraduate liberal arts education.  

Among her notable undergraduate activities and achievements, she won the Yale University Bateman Prize; was a Scholar of the College; and a member of the Order of the Cross and Crown and Phi Beta Kappa. She also won BC advanced study grants for summer field work in the Italian Alps (2018), and for research at Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (2016). Haws also was a Dean’s Scholar, participated in and performed for four years as a cellist with the Chamber Music Society, and was a member of the Geology Club.

Shortly before her graduation from the University, she commented on how Boston College has made a difference in her life:

“Although I’ve learned many valuable scientific skills [at Boston College], my education has not been just career preparation, but life preparation. The Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program has taught me how to think critically and deeply about big questions, and develop my own beliefs and values, which I believe will help me lead a more thoughtful, fulfilling life. I’ve been able to consider my responsibilities toward the world and other human beings, and how I can have a positive impact.”

She also praised the opportunity to work in Earth and Environmental Sciences Professor and Department Chair Ethan Baxter’s lab, which “played a pivotal role in preparing me for my future. I’ve spent time doing research and had the opportunity to do field work abroad, collaborate with scientists at other institutions, and present my research at an international conference. In addition to helping me decide that I want to pursue scientific research, the experience I have gained is invaluable.”