While there, I interned at The Meadows, sharing my love for wildlife with local students—and I realized I loved talking to people about science. After graduating, I taught visitors about natural history at the Witte Museum before getting the chance to help create a space for learning about the Edwards Aquifer.

From a nature center to a museum to the Edwards Aquifer Authority Education Outreach Center, science has taken me on an incredible journey. Celebrating women and girls in science today and always.

Initially, I was on track to become a social studies teacher, which requires taking History, Geography, and Political Science. The more geography related courses I took at Texas State University’s Department of Geography, where Environmental Sciences are housed, the more I enjoyed it. That’s where it clicked for me and I switched my major from History to Geography – Resources and Environmental Studies with a minor in History. I did field work in the San Marcos River, analyzed large data sets for water quality, environmental health, soils, you name it. I learned so much about human interactions with the environment that I was continuously fascinated and still wanted to teach others about their environment.

As a child I was always outside exploring and observing nature. Our parents always took us to outdoor places, I loved hiking, camping, fishing, rock hunting, gardening, all the things! I really should have known this is where I belonged, I just didn’t see myself as a “science” person because it wasn’t my strongest subject in grade school.

I chose to focus on water resources because of how important it is to our world and have been an informal science teacher working for places like the EAA!

The world can be a big place, but pursuing a career in stem, expanded my world beyond I could ever imagine. The earth has lots to tell, and because I chose the path of Geology, I am able to listen and decipher its hidden language. It makes every step outside a little adventure.

I fell in love with science, especially math and physics, by reading scientific magazines for teenagers in my country. In university I learned how to apply science to get the most benefit from water resources. I was so curious to learn more that I applied to study abroad and got an admission for PhD from the USA universities (University of Texas at El Paso and Oklahoma State University). As one of my post Doctorate projects, I modeled the hydrology of parts of Edwards Aquifer which led to my application for the job. The rest is history. My work here is like solving a big, exciting puzzle every day and making life better for everybody, including the tiny creatures in the springs.

As one can see there is no wrong or right way to get into science. Everyone can enjoy science with their love for the natural world, art, maps, photography, history, wildlife, geology, and exploring. Science is everywhere and easy to appreciate. You never know where your interest in science can lead you in your career. The EAA and other similar entities around the world are full of opportunities for someone with a love of science.
Are you a science enthusiast or do you know someone in your life that is interested in pursuing a career in the science field? Schedule your free visit to our center by visiting our homepage and booking your upcoming visit today!

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