Jack Hatajik is a Master of Forest Science Graduate Student at the Yale School of the Environment (YSE). He holds a B.S. in Ecology and Evolution, as well as Film and Media Studies from the University of Pittsburgh (’23). At YSE, he is conducting a research project to understand the drivers of forest groundstory changes following emerald ash borer infestation in temperate deciduous ecosystems. He is collaborating with YSE faculty, state ecologists and entomologists, foresters, and local land managers to conduct this project throughout the state of Connecticut. As he conducts this project, he will share this research with community members and strengthen his ability to work in partnership with other forest researchers and the public. After completing his graduate degree, he plans to prepare for a career at a governmental agency or an NGO. He aspires to conduct equitable research, ideally in collaboration with local stakeholders and Indigenous Peoples, and within the framework of climate change as it impacts future forest dynamics and restoration ecology.