Celestial Fish’s UMaine experience has been shaped by community, research, and the generosity of donors.
“The scholarship allowed me to attend the university’s Semester by the Sea program at the Darling Marine Center for both the fall and spring semesters,” Celestial shared. “It gave me two semesters of hands-on experience with the ocean and the opportunity to connect with people across Maine’s marine science field.” The support also helped her collaborate on her capstone research project with graduate student Dara Yiu, studying juvenile pollock stomach contents in rocky intertidal habitats along the coast of Maine.
After graduating in May 2025, Celestial began working as the Residence Life and Outreach Coordinator at the Darling Marine Center. She plans to continue pursuing marine science opportunities in New England to further develop her skills and gain more field experience.
Reflecting on her time at UMaine, Celestial credits the community for shaping her success. “I had the opportunity to connect with amazing students and faculty who truly cared about giving me the best possible education,” she said. “That sense of community and shared passion helped me make it through my time at UMaine and graduate with my bachelor’s.”
As a nontraditional transfer student, Celestial understands firsthand how donor support changes lives. “Even though I was a little older when I returned to college, I couldn’t have afforded tuition and room and board without loans. Scholarships allowed me to focus on my classes and excel in my schoolwork,” she said. “They make a huge difference in students’ lives.”
Editor’s Note: Celestial is from Portland, Maine, and received the John and Elaine (Willis) Morin Scholarship
