Mel Krukow
Mel Krukow
Class Year
’26
Hometown
Oshkosh, Wis.
Major(s)
Biology, Paleontology Track
Minor(s)
Art
Mel Krukow ’26, a finalist for a Presidential Scholarship, is excited to study fossils as a paleontology student at Carthage. They will soon travel for the J-Term study tour to Montana for an expedition with their classmates. And, with support from Professor Thomas Carr and alumnus Nathan Cochran ’23, they landed an internship to work with fossils under Professor Joseph Frederickson at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh.
Learn about Carthage’s paleontology program
Faculty mentors
“Prof. Carr is always willing to help with paleontology. He’s willing to assist me with applying to grad school when the time comes and has even given me and a couple of other paleo-track students the opportunity of going to Montana for a dig. Professor Chelsea Gemeinhardt and Professor Olivia Altstad are two of the best chemistry professors, helping me succeed and offering the best help when I have questions. Biology professors, too, are willing to help any time you need.”
Favorite class
“My favorite classes so far are the art classes — especially Watercolor and Acrylic Painting. Although the courses differ from my major, working with Professor Ryan Miller has been something fun. A great sense of humor and a great feel of freedom is all you need in art, and trust me, he doesn’t fail.”
Campus involvement
“I’m involved in three clubs: Pokemon League, Adventures in Fandom & Cosplay, and Paleontology Club. All these have helped me open up a little and make friends.”
Career goal
“After graduation, I plan to continue my study in paleontology at grad school. I’ve been working towards this goal since I was three years old, and now I have a future job set up with a paleontologist in my hometown.”
Favorite spot on campus
“The beach on campus behind Johnson Hall is one of my favorite places. I like walking along the beach during nice weather, taking photos of the moon, listening to the waves, and more. Especially when I find bones lying around, it’s always fun to take them back home, which of course, my parents enjoy.”
Favorite memory
“I think being able to go to Paleo Fest through Paleo Club was something I’ll never forget, especially since that’s where I got my internship.”
What would your 8-year-old self think of you now?
“My eight-year-old self would be over the moon to see where I am. I’ve always been the dinosaur kid, and here I am, committing to what I love.”