Tell us something about where you grew up and your experiences.

I was born and raised in Oregon. My family has always loved the outdoors and we spent a lot of time hiking and camping when I was growing up which was definitely a part of why I was drawn to the earth sciences.

What do you like about the EEPS Dept?

Definitely the community. We’re such a small department that I feel like I’ve really had the chance to get to know both my classmates and professors. I also love how much field work I have been able to do, which always makes my non-EEPS friends jealous.

What’s something you don’t know about or how to do, but would like to learn?

I want to learn American Sign Language. I learned a little in high school but have gotten super rusty in college.

Tell us about your senior research thesis.

My senior project is focused on mine waste (called tailings) that were produced by iron and titanium mines in the Adirondacks. I’m looking at the chemical composition to see if there are any economically valuable minerals or elements for things like renewable energy development and computers. It’s given me the opportunity to dabble in a lot of different areas and try a lot of different analytical methods, which I have enjoyed.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I volunteer at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History talking to people about rocks and fossils! I also enjoy cooking, baking, and spending time outside.

What are you enthused about for your future?

I’m excited to figure out what comes next after I graduate! I’m currently looking at a bunch of different career paths and I’m excited about the possibility of finding a job that makes me happy. (I’m also enthused about the prospect of never doing homework again).