Rooted in the Boot: Meet LSU 2025 Grads Choosing to Start Careers in Louisiana
May 09, 2025
As the Class of 2025 prepares to cross the stage, many Tigers are also stepping into their next chapter right here in Louisiana. Whether launching careers or pursuing advanced degrees, these students are planting roots in "the Boot" and making an impact across the state.
Educating the future
– Photos by Eddy Perez
Mary Claire Morel
About
Hometown
Plaquemine, La.
Why did you choose to stay in Louisiana to start your career?
By staying in Louisiana, I hope to contribute to the growth of our state by investing in our students. I believe that education is a powerful tool and through my work, I hope to instill in my students the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become effective leaders.
What impact do you hope to make?
I come from a family full of teachers. Throughout my life I’ve witnessed their tireless commitment to serving our schools and supporting our students. I have watched as they have stayed up late to prepare lessons, advocated for students, and celebrated their achievements. My hope is to continue their legacy of leaving a positive impact on my students. I hope to help them grow not just academically, but also as confident, empathetic, and resilient individuals.
What was your favorite experience at LSU?
LSU offers so many educational opportunities for its students. While I am graduating with a Master’s degree, I will also be receiving ESL, Reading Specialist, and Urban and Community Education Certificates. Each of these certifications has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to better understand the social and cultural factors that influence learning. Whether it's supporting multilingual learners, addressing challenges in literacy, or meeting the specific needs of students in urban communities, I now feel more confident in my ability to serve my students and their communities.
Improving Louisiana's health
Noah Stewart
About
Hometown
Why did you choose to stay in Louisiana to start your career?
Louisiana has felt like home since the day that I first toured LSU as a high school student. The sense of community and genuine care for others that I have experienced in my time at LSU has led me to desire to pursue a career in healthcare in the state of Louisiana. I feel that the relationships that I have formed here will provide a strong support system during my time in medical school and beyond.
What impact do you hope to make?
I hope to exhibit the care and compassion that the people of Louisiana have shown me in my future career as a physician, attending to their needs and making them feel valued as individuals.
What was your favorite experience at LSU?
My favorite experience at LSU was storming the field after beating Alabama in 2022.
Why should others attend LSU?
Others should attend LSU because it offers all of the opportunities and experiences associated with a large university while also providing high quality academics and personalized support.
Leading Timber Innovation
Crockett Comeaux
About
Hometown
Franklinton, La.
Why did you choose to stay in Louisiana to start your career?
I have grown up in Louisiana my entire life, and it has always been a place that I thought I could stay and make an impact. I never really considered working anywhere else. Louisiana offers some incredible opportunities within my field of study that I am very passionate about, and I wanted to stay close personal and professional connections I had made while at LSU.
What impact do you hope to make?
I hope to become a leader and promote sustainability within the timber industry that can benefit both Louisiana's infrastructure and environment. I want to work to ensure that our state's natural resources are available and healthy for generations to come.
What was your favorite experience at LSU?
One of my favorite experience while being at LSU was being a part of the 2022 and 2024 Homecoming Court. Being able to represent LSU at such a high level is something I will remember for a long time.
Why should others attend LSU?
LSU is a place of rich traditions and spirit that is difficult to put into words until you experience it. Our university offers a place or program for almost everything you can think of and continues to lead on the field and in the classroom. LSU gives you the tools and opportunities you need to grow, connect, and thrive during your college career as well as your entry into the professional world.
Healing Louisiana's animals
Ethan Reeves
About
Kinder, La.
Why did you choose to stay in Louisiana to start your career?
I chose to stay in Louisiana simply because it is home. I love the community that raised me and I believe in using my talents garnered at LSU SVM to fulfill a need for service in my underserved community. I hope to make not only my community stronger, but my parish and state a better place for animals and people alike.
What impact do you hope to make?
I hope to improve animal health and welfare by advocating for those that cannot speak for themselves. I also aim to empower pet owners via animal health education to foster a more responsible and compassionate community.
What was your favorite experience at LSU?
My favorite part of LSU were the lifelong relationships I have made and the knowledge that I have gained since studying here.
Why should others attend LSU?
Others should attend LSU not only for its strong academic programs, but also due to its rich history and culture that make student life much more memorable. My time at LSU has been nothing short of incredible and I would do it again in a heartbeat.
ADVANCING EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Brandon Walton
About
Tuscaloosa, Ala.
Why did you choose to stay in Louisiana to start your career?
I decided to stay in Louisiana to broaden my network and deepen my connections, taking full advantage of the opportunities the region offers.
What impact do you hope to make?
I hope to positively impact Louisiana by providing innovative solutions using emerging technologies to improve both work life and productivity. Additionally, I aim to contribute to Louisiana’s growth as an emerging leader in technology, helping the state become a hub for innovation and progress in the tech industry.
What was your favorite experience at LSU?
One of my most memorable experiences at LSU was attending the Saturday night football games, particularly the LSU vs. Alabama game in 2022.
Why should others attend LSU?
LSU offers a wide range of opportunities for both professional and personal growth, backed by a strong and inclusive community. The campus is rich in diversity, allowing students to connect with people from all walks of life and broaden their perspectives. Beyond academics, LSU is a fun and vibrant place to be, full of energy, school spirit, and lifelong memories.
Next Steps
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