News from the Office of Connected Learning

North Creek Wetland: a valued piece of climate-adaptation infrastructure

New research at the University of Washington Bothell found that the restored North Creek wetland does more than support wildlife. It also helps cool the campus by reducing the urban heat island effect during the hottest parts of the day. Using drone-based thermal imaging, researchers discovered that the wetland lowers surface temperatures more effectively than...

August 7, 2026

Seoul to Busan, the incredible South Korea I’ve been, so far by Hoksila Archambault

Exploring South Korea gave one UW Bothell student a firsthand look at a country where cultural traditions and technological innovation exist side by side. Throughout the program, he experienced the vibrant cities of Seoul and Busan while discovering the resilience and adaptability that come with studying abroad. From visiting historic sites and museums to taking...

August 5, 2026

Learning through interactions. A study abroad experience Ireland by Lucia Lari Zuniga

A study abroad program in Ireland gave Ana the opportunity to experience public health beyond the classroom. Through the Ireland: Resilience and Resistance program, she explored how public policies shape communities while gaining firsthand insight into the country’s history and healthcare system. By visiting public health agencies and speaking with local residents, Ana experienced concepts...

August 4, 2026

Lessons From Local People by Gary Norris

For Gary, studying abroad in Ireland transformed history from something he studied into something he experienced. Through the Representing Empire Study Abroad program, he explored the streets of Dublin, where reminders of the 1916 Uprising and the Irish War of Independence remain visible in the city’s landmarks and in the stories shared by local residents....

July 20, 2026

Finding Myself in Sydney: A Solo Study Abroad Journey by Michaela Tiya

For Michaela, studying abroad in Sydney, Australia was an opportunity to embrace independence and experience a new country on her own terms. While taking courses in the heart of Sydney, Michaela explored beyond the classroom by hiking the Blue Mountains, walking the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Trail and visiting iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera...

July 3, 2026

Making the most of a second chance

For Thomas Purchas, returning to the University of Washington Bothell was more than a second chance. It became the start of a journey shaped by research, mentorship and discovery. After taking an econometrics course with Dr. Xiahua (Anny) Wei, he was encouraged to pursue an independent research project through the UW Bothell Summer Research Award,...

June 30, 2026

Students honored for civic engagement

Two UW Bothell students are being recognized for turning leadership into meaningful action on campus and beyond. Aamena Ellithy and Alondra Guzman were named the 2026 recipients of the Chancellor’s Student Civic Leadership Awards, an honor that celebrates students who address important community issues through service, advocacy and social impact. Ellithy, a Law, Economics &...

June 18, 2026

Discovery gives insight into black holes

UW Bothell researchers helped contribute to a major astronomy discovery: the fastest ultraviolet outflow ever observed from a supermassive black hole. The discovery focuses on a distant quasar called J2318, which is producing a powerful wind moving at nearly 30% of the speed of light. The finding helps scientists better understand how energy from black...

June 5, 2026