Maybe you know the feeling...

Your undergraduate education is coming to an end, all your friends are planning job interviews and you have no idea what to do with your future.

That was me. I had thought about applying for jobs, but all the interesting jobs seemed to require an advanced education. This is how I knew I wanted to go into graduate school, and looking back I knew I made the right choice.

Originally from Maine, I attended Hartwick College of Oneonta New York, and earned my degree in biochemistry. However, while working on my biochemistry degree I developed a strong interest for geology. This is why the Geochemistry program at the Colorado School of Mines was so appealing to me. The Chemistry and Geochemistry department places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, which allows me to mix all the subjects that I enjoy learning about.

As a research assistant, I’m involved with a few different microgeochemistry projects. I look at different strains of bacteria, their growing environments, and their metabolic cycles. At the same time, I’m working on finishing up my graduate course load. I feel fortunate to be in interesting classes that relate to my research as well as develop my skills and thought processes.

While moving across the country was certainly an adventure, I figure it was an adventure that couldn’t be passed up. Plus, graduate school is a great opportunity to try something new. I have found the faculty and other graduate students incredibly friendly and helpful to newcomers.

The city of Golden is nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, though not far from Denver, providing the best of both worlds. And while I might be the only person in the city that doesn’t ski, I still find always something to do and occupy my time.