UMass Amherst

Maxwell T. Hockstad

Major: Environmental Design

Hometown: Holliston, Massachusetts


"I want to inspire others to become more sensitive to the subtle forms and relationships of their environment," says Maxwell Hockstad of his exhibit of sculpture, photos and mixed media at the Student Union Art Gallery. An honors independent study with landscape architecture professor Annaliese Bischoff led him to organize the show, entitled Forging Order from a World of Chaos.

Maxwell is enthusiastic about the "incredible diversity of knowledge and experience among the faculty at UMass." He says, "Many of my professors have used their own real-world experience as a backing for their lectures, often taking the opportunity to share interesting anecdotes or pass on their unique and enlightened perspectives to their students in other creative ways. They make the future seem very exciting and full of many possibilities."

Crediting the honors college with playing an important role in motivating him to realize his full potential, Maxwell says, "Commonwealth College has enhanced my academic experience in environmental design to an incredible degree. I never thought I'd propel myself forward with such ambitious ideas."

Maxwell is continuing his work with Professor Bischoff and has added biology professor Peter Alpert to guide his senior project for departmental honors in environmental design. "I cannot help but apply concepts of ecology or biology to the human sphere as a way of seeking out the inherent connections that exist between us and the natural world. I am hoping to bring all of my creative and philosophical energy together for the project."