Gulf Park Transfer Student Credits Southern Miss for Career-Defining Opportunities
Thu, 03/26/2026 - 09:48am | By: Gabriela Shinskie
Connor McKee
After beginning his college career at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC), Connor McKee transferred to The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) to turn his interest in oyster research into a career serving the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Now a sustainability sciences major set to graduate in May, McKee credits his transfer experience with opening the door to expanded research opportunities and hands-on work in aquaculture.
“The transfer process was seamless, and it allowed me to continue building on the foundation I started at community college,” McKee said. “Being both a student and an employee at Southern Miss has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”
A native of Ocean Springs, McKee chose to begin his higher education close to home at MGCCC. While enrolled there, he applied for a part-time position in the oyster program at the Southern Miss Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center (TCMAC). The role gave him direct exposure to oyster aquaculture research and solidified his decision to pursue a bachelor’s degree in sustainability sciences.
After completing two years at MGCCC, McKee transferred to Southern Miss, where he was able to continue working at TCMAC while advancing his academic studies. He said the university’s transfer pathways made the transition straightforward and allowed him to remain on track academically and professionally.
At TCMAC, McKee researches oyster growth, assists with graduate and doctoral projects, and collaborates with local oyster companies and industry stakeholders. His work includes regular visits to oyster farms south of Deer Island in the Mississippi Sound, supporting efforts to strengthen the coastal oyster economy.
“USM has given me more than an education; it has given me a sense of purpose, belonging and direction. Balancing academics with hands-on work in the field has shown me what learning looks like beyond the classroom and how knowledge can be applied to real-world challenges that matter deeply to our communities along the Gulf Coast,” said McKee.
Megan Gima, oyster hatchery manager at TCMAC who oversees McKee’s work, said she has seen his passion grow into a career poised to make a difference in Mississippi’s oyster ecosystem.
“We encourage hands-on involvement that truly immerses students in the world of aquaculture. This field offers tremendous potential for economic growth, food security and ecological resilience along our coast,” said Gima. “As Connor’s supervisor, I have seen him embrace these opportunities by gaining practical, real-world experience that connects classroom learning to applied aquaculture research, operations and outreach.”
McKee first developed an interest in aquaculture in high school, where he participated in a hands-on program focused on the field. A class visit to TCMAC sparked his interest in oyster research.
One of his most impactful experiences was attending the Oyster South Symposium in Houston, where he connected with aquaculture leaders from across the region and gained broader insight into the industry.
As he prepares to graduate, McKee plans to continue working in oyster aquaculture and explore earning a master’s degree at Southern Miss. He said his journey from community college to a research-focused university environment demonstrates how accessible pathways can help students build meaningful careers close to home.
About the College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences at The University of Southern Mississippi is home to 13 schools, two ROTC units, and more than 100 academic programs. Guided by the University’s mission, we educate students, lead the state and nation in research and the creative arts, and advance knowledge across the humanities, social sciences, and STEM. Through innovative research and nationally recognized student success, we provide pathways to understanding the past, solving today's challenges, and imagining the possibilities of tomorrow.