What inspired you to obtain your college degree?
“As long as I could remember, I wanted to go to college. Even before I started first grade, I already had plans to go to the University of Colorado, but I am incredibly proud to be a Bear now. My mom was unable to complete her own college education and has always been my biggest support in going to school.”
What was your process in selecting Missouri State University?
“In all honesty, Missouri State was not my first pick college. After touring the campus, meeting some of the faculty, and through the hype of my best friend, the choice to come to Missouri State was a clear one. A lot of my decision came down to tuition cost and the majors offered at Missouri State. MSU’s affordable tuition and selection of majors gave me the freedom I needed to explore different majors which further allowed me to figure out what I wanted to do with my life.”
Do you have a personal “Mission Statement”?
“It might be cliche, but never give up. Life is not always great; there’s curveballs, fastballs, and heck, sometimes they hit you from behind with no warning. It hurts and it’s hard, but I get up, roll with the punches, and keep moving forward.”
I see you also have an interest in Museum Studies, what inspired your path?
“In the beginning of my college career, I switched my major and minor a lot. I had a vague idea of what I wanted to do but wasn’t entirely sure how to go about it. I’ve always had an interest and love for natural science museums, so one of the GGP faculty members recommended I research this minor. This minor was an exceptionally eye-opening experience, teaching me about the nuances of museum work and so many cultures that we as a society do our best to represent in a museum setting. While I don’t know if I’ll pursue a career in museum work, I feel more culturally competent for getting the minor.”
“I will also be the first person in my immediate family to pursue a Master’s degree or higher.”
Why have you chosen to stay with Geology in obtaining your Master of Science degree?
“From the very first geology class I took at MSU, geology has grown into something I am fiercely passionate about. There is so much to learn and understand about our earth and its history. I want to expand my knowledge in this field and push the limits of my own understanding of our earth to give others a better understanding of the planet and its history.”
Do you know what your research interests will be in obtaining your Masters?
“My interests lie heavily in structural geology and geologic mapping. My thesis project will focus on structural geology, geochemistry, geochronology, and some mapping.”
Do you know what your future goals are?
“My heart lies with research and fieldwork so I would love to work with a mapping company or a geologic survey. I’ve also thought about working in an academic setting such as a college professor or with the United States park service.”
What has/have been the highlights of your education here?
“Field camp, the class trips, and being a part of Missouri State Improv. The first trip I went on with the geology department was the trip that helped me decide to switch to the Geology major. Field camp was an experience unmatched by anything I’ve ever done and 10/10 would do it again. The friends I’ve made in the department and on the improv team are irreplaceable. The friends you make in college are half of the experience, your support system. They’re my family.”
How about the Jim K. Bass Scholarship for Geology Field Studies Scholarship? You used it for completion of the field study requirement, right? Tell us more about that.
“I was in shock. I’ve paid for my tuition almost entirely on my own or through loans, so it would be a lie if I said I had not been a little worried about how to pay for the field camp. I remember the day I got the notification that I had been awarded this scholarship and I cried tears of joy. I am so incredibly thankful for that award. Thanks to that scholarship, I was able to focus on my studies and worry less about finances. I really believe it helped me reach my full potential at field camp.”
Any motivational words of wisdom to share with undergrads?
- “Don’t be afraid to explore different majors. I switched my major/minor 9 times before I found something I was passionate enough about to pursue as a career. You are not alone if you don’t know what you want to do for the rest of your life, so don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and take that class you’re curious about.”
- “Join a club or group on campus. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of the friends I’ve made at MSU.”