one of the smallest majors on campus?
It's awesome. The professors are all on a first name basis. We get our own lockers and we have our own keys to the building. We go on lots of overnight field trips together for the classes, and the majors throw parties called "Metamorphosis" in the geology building.
When did you decide to major in geology?
Ever since elementary school I've been interested in environmental issues, especially water resources, and geology definitely fit in line with that. I experimented with classes in lots of different departments my freshman and sophomore years, but decided on geology largely after my experience working for Anna Martini, a geology professor, on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia the summer after my freshman year.
Are you writing a thesis? On what?
Yes, it's called "Microbial Controls on Calcite Precipitation in Lacustrine Environments" and has to do with how particular bugs affect the accuracy of our records of past climate change. I traveled to Ireland this summer to collect the samples I'm using. It's a lot of work but I knew I was ready for the experience of independent research.
What's your favorite rock?
I'm embarrassed I don't know the name of it-but it's pinky purple and sparkly!
What do you think could be improved about Amherst?
I wish more people were connected with the community outside the college. Most of us are really busy as it is, but I think it never hurts to reach out and do community service, even if it's only a little bit. After spending our weekdays learning about the world from our classes and texts I think we should go out and participate in it-give back something. But I'm one to speak, I rarely find time to help out.
Do you have any ideas as to what you'll be doing this time next year?
There are lots of things I'm interested in: Peace Corps, temping, some environmental consulting positions, geology masters programs, the Hitchcock fellowship at Amherst, teaching, the list goes on. I'll just have to wait and see what ends up working out.
What do you think of the weather?
I like the seasons. If it wasn't this cold sometimes then we wouldn't appreciate those gorgeous fall and spring days on the quad as much. Basically, just wear enough layers, hats, etc. and you'll be fine. It's not like we have to commute to our jobs or anything so the snow isn't really a problem. And sledding on Memorial? Awesome!
Do you ever get bored while running long distances during cross country? What do you think about?
It definitely depends on your state of mind: some days a four-mile run is super boring, other days after 10 miles I've still got stuff to think about. Running with other people is never boring, neither is running outside on a gorgeous day. Being on trails in the woods is great because you are out in nature, but I actually like running on city sidewalks too because you can people-watch. When I run with the team we talk about anything and everything-there's no such thing as a stupid comment when all you are doing is running for an hour.
Have you ever considered getting a tattoo? Why or why not?
I definitely considered it, but my brother and sister convinced me not to get one because they thought I'd regret it when I was older. If I did get one it would be white ink and not too conspicuous.
Any claims to fame?
Not really claims to fame, but ... I stood under a freezing cold shower for 57 minutes over Interterm as part of a contest. And even as a senior, I have no qualms about sitting down and introducing myself to people I don't know at Valentine if I don't see anyone I know to sit with.