Student Spotlight
Abigail Sandquist
Abbie Sandquist is a Ph.D. candidate in the Graduate Program of Hydrologic Sciences (GPHS) at the University of Nevada, Reno. She holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Fresno State, earned in 2017. Before pursuing graduate studies, Abbie worked as a mechanical engineer from 2018 to 2021 in an ocean infrastructure group supporting the U.S. Navy. Her transition into hydrology began in 2021 when she enrolled at UNR to focus her career on water sciences and resource management.
Abbie was introduced to the Nevada Water Resources Association (NWRA) through her academic program at UNR and became a member after signing up for a Fall symposium event. Since then, she has been actively involved with the organization, including serving as a student representative for two years. She has regularly attended and presented at NWRA events and conferences, further strengthening her academic and professional engagement with the water community.
Her involvement has been recognized through student poster presentation awards in both 2023 and 2024, highlighting the quality and impact of her research. Looking ahead, Abbie sees NWRA as a valuable network that can support her transition from academia to a professional role in the water sector after completing her Ph.D.
Abbie encourages fellow students to make the most of NWRA’s opportunities by presenting their research, participating in the job shadow program, applying for scholarships, and taking part in the many conferences and events hosted throughout the year. These activities not only support academic growth but also help students form meaningful connections in the field of water resources.
Her advice to students currently involved with NWRA is to embrace every chance to network and learn more about the professionals working in water across Nevada. These interactions can lead to lasting mentorships, collaborations, and job opportunities that extend well beyond graduate school.
