Her Story
About Sophia
Sophia Hard is a fourth-year undergraduate student at the University of St. Thomas, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a minor in Environmental Science and an expected graduation date of May 2027. Based in St. Paul, Minnesota, she is passionate about advancing innovative and sustainable approaches within the natural sciences. Her academic interests include wildlife biology, fisheries science, conservation management, ecology, and the preservation of natural ecosystems.
Sophia currently serves as an Undergraduate Research Mentor and EES Department Student Intern within the University of St. Thomas Earth, Environment, and Society Department. As a research mentor, she contributes to the “Hidden Figures” project, conducting archival and literature-based research to identify overlooked contributors to environmental science. Her previous research as an Undergraduate Research Assistant involved studying Cisco and Lake Whitefish in Northern Minnesota through stable isotope analysis in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. She has also gained hands-on field experience through fish sampling, electrofishing, gillnetting, and other environmental research methods.
Beyond academics and research, Sophia is actively involved in the University of St. Thomas community through the Earth, Environment, and Society Club, Sustainability Club, Tommie Outdoors, Rock Climbing Club, and other student activities. Her experiences include a geology field course in the Southwest, studying abroad in Rome, and working as a watercraft inspector educating the public about aquatic invasive species. She is especially passionate about spending time outdoors, hiking, camping, fish keeping, reading, arts and crafts, traveling, and environmental conservation. Through her education, research, leadership, and community involvement, Sophia is building a strong foundation for a future dedicated to biology, environmental science, and the protection of natural ecosystems.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sophia
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would honestly say my family and friends. I've learned to really look for people who radiate the energy that you want to give to the world. I've met a really great community of friends and colleagues at school who push me to do more, and they push me to be better, and they've really helped me build my confidence, and just learn to accept myself.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received is don't be afraid to put yourself out there. Don't be intimidated because people are willing to give you advice and wisdom that they've learned. Don't be afraid to just put yourself out there, say your name, and make connections.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Advice I'd give young women is to don't be afraid to just be present and take up space. Just trust in yourself and trust your intuition. Be bold and take up space, because that is what is really going to push you, and also, you might inspire other girls who need to see it and hear it.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge I've faced so far is kind of a lack of confidence sometimes. You might feel like there's people that are more experienced than you, or having self-doubts. I've definitely struggled with that. I have a habit of comparing myself to other students, or second-guessing where I should be at. Learning how to navigate that uncertainty has been challenging but rewarding.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
What I value most in my work life is honestly just making a community within my workplace. I strive to just be a friendly face that people can know, and letting people know it's okay to mess up because that is how you learn. I strive in my position to just be a leader for other students and let them know it's okay to ask for help.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.