John Simcox
Name: John Simcox
Hometown: Kingsport, Tenn.
Year in School: Senior
Major: Marine Science
Before transferring to Coastal Carolina, John Simcox attended the University of Tennessee where he played football for the Volunteers. So what made him leave Knoxville for Teal Nation? Ask John and he will get straight to the point:
The hands-on opportunities.
Making the decision to attend an institution that prides itself on experiential learning has paid off for John so far. A marine science major, he has enjoyed the experience in the field the program has given him since he arrived. Serving as a research assistant while also working with a couple different elasmobranch societies, John is doing exactly what he wants to do.
John describes himself as a hard worker and it is easy to see. Very involved in his chosen field both in the classroom and out of the classroom (he works at Ripley’s Aquarium), he also has defined goals. After his time at Coastal has concluded, John wants to study electro-systems in sharks or perhaps go into astrobiology. Whatever the next step is, Coastal Carolina is glad to have helped John get hands-on experience with his passion.
Q&A with John
How did you hear about Coastal?: I heard about Coastal Carolina just by searching for marine science programs.
Why did you come to Coastal?: Because I wanted to study marine science.
Favorite professor: Dr. Dan Abel
Favorite class: Biology of Sharks
Favorite aspect of Coastal?: The marine science program is very hands on, and allows you to get as much real life experience as possible.
Favorite aspect of living in the Conway/Myrtle Beach area?: Living in this area is nice for people in my major as we have access to the ocean and other wetland ecosystems
Clubs/Intramurals/other extracurricular activities involved in?: Coastal Elasmobranch Society, American Elasmobranch Society, CCU Shark Team, research assistant and I conduct my own research.
Do you work anywhere currently (either on or off campus)?: Yes, I work at Ripley’s Aquarium.
Plans after graduation?: I plan to attend graduate school to study electro-sensory systems in sharks, skates and rays. I am also interested in astrobiology and I plan to do something with that as well.
What are your hobbies?: I love nature documentaries, space documentaries, and I love to be outdoors, either on the water or in the mountains.
Bonus Info: I played college football for the University of Tennessee Volunteers before I transferred to CCU.