Dean’s Medalist credits ASU mentors and community for her path to becoming a scientist
Ellie Higgins, graduating from Arizona State University this May, has been named a Dean’s Medalist for the School of Earth and Space Exploration. An astrophysics major and student in Barrett, The Honors College, she will begin pursuing a PhD in Earth and planetary sciences at Harvard University this fall.
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2026 graduates.
Arizona State University’s School of Earth and Space Exploration has named Ellie Higgins its Spring 2026 Dean’s Medalist, recognizing the astrophysics graduate’s outstanding academic achievement, leadership and contributions to the ASU community.
A Phoenix native and Barrett, The Honors College student, Higgins will pursue a PhD in Earth and planetary sciences at Harvard University this fall, supported by the prestigious National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship.
In addition to the Dean’s Medal and NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, Higgins was honored with the Harvard Ashford Fellowship, the AGU Travel Grant, the Moeur Award, the New American University President’s Award, The College Leadership Award and placement on the Dean’s List every year from 2022 to 2026.
Higgins was drawn to astrophysics on account of her love of math and physics in high school. A memorable moment came when her physics teacher explained it would be impossible to stand on Jupiter. This simple concept sparked wonder and helped solidify her decision to pursue astrophysics.
ASU was a natural choice for Higgins, who chose its interdisciplinary-focused programs in the School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE). These opportunities allowed her to explore different interests while being focused on her goal of working in space exploration.
“Although I am glad I chose astrophysics as a major, my true passion has been planetary science and geophysics,” Higgins said. “I was exposed to these concepts in my astrophysics classes, so I am grateful to have taken them at ASU.”
During her time at ASU, Higgins discovered not only her academic passion but also her identity as a scientist.
“Before coming to ASU, I never considered myself a scientist,” Higgins said. “Even until my sophomore year, I would not have considered myself one, despite being involved in research. Now, I can confidently say I am a scientist, thanks to my SESE mentors and community empowering me in research and science communication.
“SESE gave me a great opportunity to explore other interests and find my true passion. I have found a supportive community and environment within SESE that allowed me to explore all my interests and passions.”
Central to her development as a researcher was the mentorship of Associate Professor Joe O’Rourke, who stressed the power of curiosity-driven questioning.
“He taught me to never be afraid to ask questions and keep asking until you have figured it out,” Higgins said. “Being able to ask the right questions is what makes you a good scientist.”
Higgins’ senior thesis, focused on the magnetic properties of Venus, is already being used by O’Rourke to help propose the first-ever magnetic survey of the planet.
“Ellie is the best! She excels at both conducting scientific research and communicating it to the public,” O’Rourke said. “I am confident that she will succeed in graduate school and would not be surprised if she returned to ASU as a professor someday.”
Higgins has some straightforward advice for students still finding their way in college: Don’t let one tough class decide your future.
“College is hard, and it’s meant to be hard,” she said. “Struggling in a class does not mean you’re not meant for that major, or that you are not good enough. It means that your mind is growing and growth takes time, so give yourself time.”
Outside of class, Higgins enjoyed spending time at the “Crater Carpet” on the third floor of ISTB4. It was a place where she could relax and focus on her studies.
“It’s so serene but also busy enough for me to get work done,” she said. “One time, it was raining outside, and I could hear and see the rain from the skylight above. It made me feel so at peace and less anxious about upcoming assignments.”
As she prepares to begin her doctoral studies at Harvard, Higgins reflects on her ASU experience with gratitude for the mentors, community and opportunities that helped shape her path as a scientist and future planetary researcher.
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