Alixandra (Jacobson) Burke, B.S. 2012

Staff Attorney, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

2012 Major: Biology; minors in Environmental Science and Classical Civilizations

How has being a Biology graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?

"Duke Biology helped me to think more critically and be more curious about the world around us. I made mentors at the Duke Marine Lab that I am still in contact with to this day, 10+ years after graduation, and who are still genuinely interested in my career trajectory. After Duke, I went to law school, where I focused on environmental law. My science background helped me understand the natural world that the environmental laws were trying to protect. I also found that my strong science writing skills translated well into the legal field. I currently work for the Department of Natural Resources in Wisconsin, and find that my clients appreciate my science background. I’m proud to have graduated from Duke and cherish my memories of the Marine Lab."

What advice would you give students in Duke's Biology programs? 

"A background in biology is a great foundation for any career you want to pursue in the future! I found my biology degree prepared me well for law school, which is probably a less-traditional career route to travel with a science background. Studying biology makes you a critical thinker, a good writer, and encourages collaboration."

Alixandra (Jacobson) Burke