George Crocker chose UC Davis for graduate school for two reasons. Firstly, it offered a master’s degree in exercise science. Secondly, "It's halfway between San Francisco and the Sierras!"

For a student whose life revolves around endurance activity inside and outside of the lab, the location is absolutely crucial. "Outside of research, I play sports – namely endurance sports (swimming, cycling and running) as well as tennis and volleyball," said Crocker. UC Davis' location encourages this kind of lifestyle with its proximity to various terrains – from the flats of the Sacramento Valley to the mountains of Lake Tahoe.

Crocker's love of endurance-related activities is apparent in his research. A doctoral student in the Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology Graduate Group, he works on campus in the Claire Giannini Hoffman Equine Athletic Performance Lab in the School of Veterinary Medicine, studying the effects of breathing toxic gases and acute lung injury on aerobic exercise capacity. "I study exercise and environmental physiology because doing so combines my background in biology with my passion for exercise and the outdoors."Soldiers, rescue workers and miners in fire/explosion scenarios commonly experience the combination of breathing fiery gases and acute lung injury. Crocker's study models how and why the exercise capacity of individuals working in these environments is impaired in goats, chosen as models for humans because of their similar size and aerobic capacity as humans.

UC Davis' location isn't the only characteristic of the university that he appreciates. Crocker says, "Davis is one of the top public schools in the nation and will open doors for me in the future. The veterinary school, which is world renowned, offers me a tremendous opportunity to work around the brightest scientists in their respective fields."

The workshops that Crocker has attended at the Internship and Career Center have presented him with even more opportunities opening his eyes to a variety of careers to which he can apply his degree towards. "These workshops have helped me understand what my strengths and interests are," said Crocker. "The Internship and Career Center is an invaluable asset for UC Davis graduate students."

It's apparent that Crocker has a full schedule with his research and exercise; however, he makes a point to enjoy the life he lives. "Make time to take a walk through the arboretum, go pet the animals in the barns, take a few classes for fun, volunteer in the community, get involved with campus recreation and go to Picnic Day!" advises Crocker.

These activities help Crocker relax and keep focused on his long-term goals. "Hopefully, my research will aid in protecting individuals with blast injuries in fiery environments, such as soldiers in tanks and rescue workers in 9/11-type scenarios. I want to have a positive influence on those around me.

Photo: Crocker visits with goats. Credit: Ariel Crocker.