Ivan Wang, Age: 29; Hometown: Cupertino, California; Master's degree candidate, Fisheries Biology, class of 2000; Major professor: Dr. Anthony Gharrett

"I'm working in the Outbreeding Depression Project. Outbreeding depression can be defined as a reduction in the number of offspring that is caused by the mating of individuals with differing genetic compositions. Outbreeding depression is of interest to those involved in managing salmon populations and ecosystems. Reductions in fitness, and therefore reproductive success, whether they be short- or long-term, can increase the risk of losing subpopulations of salmon and their biological and economic benefit to the ecosystem. The goal of the project is to gain an understanding of how genetically close salmon can be, yet still allow detection of outbreeding depression."

Favorite pastimes or hobbies: "I enjoy fishing, computing, gardening, and building and repairing things."

Most interesting educational experience so far: "I found the emotional experience of releasing my broods of pink salmon to be the most interesting. It was a mix of intense relief, sadness, and joy."

Why did you choose UAF? "I chose UAF because it was one of few universities involved in salmon aquaculture. Since UAF had a good reputation in fisheries and I wanted to live in the Last Frontier, it seemed a great match."

Future plans: "My hope is to assist people in economically and nutritionally needy areas in setting up and maintaining fish farms. I have considered the Peace Corps, Food for the Hungry, and Christian mission organizations to facilitate this endeavor, but I have not yet decided which route to go."