Majors and Minor
B.S. in Geological Sciences, B.A. in Theatre Arts, and a minor in World Languages
Tell us about your current title and role. What are you responsible for day to day?
Since graduating from Salem State, I have been working as a polarized light microscope analyst of asbestos minerals in an accredited Massachusetts laboratory. We test materials for the presence of asbestos minerals in accordance with state regulations and EPA guidelines.
What attracted you to Salem State’s Geological Science program?
I was drawn by my interest in geoscience and the Salem State Geological Science department’s reputation as a formidable program. After taking my first geology course at Salem State, I knew I wanted to be a part of the program, and that it was a place where I felt a sense of belonging and purpose.
What skills did you learn as a Geological Sciences major?
The Geological Science program encouraged me to cultivate skills essential for a budding scientist. This program taught me how to orient myself in the world around me, and to explore how Earth structures today fit in the greater picture of geological history. Now, I also feel comfortable following through with the scientific method in order to investigate a research topic, thanks to my experiences while completing my senior research thesis.
What did you most enjoy about studying Geological Sciences at Salem State?
My favorite part of my time in the Geological Science program was the feeling of accomplishment that my classmates and I shared at the end of our three-week long field camp in Montana. Everyone had learned so much through the challenging field-mapping projects, and the feeling of pride in ourselves at the end of the journey was palpable between everyone. I also would be remiss if I didn’t mention the lifelong friendships I made along the way as another favorite experience of mine.
How did your time at Salem State prepare you for life after graduation?
The experience I gained from the Geological Science program at Salem State is still instrumental in my everyday life since graduating in 2022. I continue to be curious about the world around me, and I feel that I can make informed observations about rock bodies and structures. Thanks to this program, I was able to achieve a dream of securing a job in the geosciences. This program has also prepared me to return to school to start pursuing my master’s degree in 2024.
What advice would you give students interested in Geological Sciences at Salem State?
I’d encourage anyone with an itch for scientific inquiry and an interest in the world around them to consider a major in Geological Science at Salem State. From my experience, I can assure any potential student that the professors are personally invested in each individual student’s growth.
I’d like to thank the professors of the Salem State Geological Science department for allowing me to share my experiences with you all.