Students in the School of Renewable Natural Resources established a fund help a doctoral student who was attacked by an alligator while conducting her dissertation research.

The alligator “broke six bones” in doctoral student Yu-Hsin Hsueh’s right hand and arm on July 28 in Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve in Marrero, La. while she collected water and soil samples, according to a LSU AgCenter news release.

“She’s undergone several surgeries and likely has more to go,” D. Allen Rutherford, school director, said in the release.

Hsueh’s medical expenses could exceed $50,000 and are not covered by worker’s compensation as she is on a University research fellowship, according to the release. The AgCenter’s student clubs are working together to raise money for the cause.

Donations may be made at Home Bank, 10563 S. Glenstone Place, Baton Rouge, La. 70810, near the Bluebonnet Library.

Students also hosted a volleyball tournament August 21 and raised $2,200 for Hsueh.