The mission of the Department of Earth Sciences is to transform students into scientifically literate citizens and professionals by engaging them in high-impact learning activities focusing on the principles, techniques, and issues relating to earth science, geology, and meteorology. By doing so, we will prepare our students for careers in the fascinating and critical field of earth system science.
Recommendations for Majors in Earth Sciences
Year 1: Exploration
Students are exploring who they are, what they are interested in, if they are in the right major, what potential career paths exist.
Complete APS course
Meet with your major advisor to discuss career pathways and options
Attend Part-Time Job Festival (Fall)
Attend Research and Internship Day (Fall)
Attend ESC Scholars Day presentations (Spring)
Join a Living Learning Community
Sign up for Eagle Connect
Take a Career Interest Instrument
Apply for scholarships
Attend ESC scientific seminars
Explore options for gaining professional experience
Join the Earth Sciences club or other student-run organizations
Year 2: Direction
Students begin developing a professional demeanor, learning career options, and participating in activities relevant to the profession.
Begin participating in professional activities
Learn more about career options in your major
Attend Research and Internship Day (Fall)
Attend ESC Scholars Day presentations (Spring)
Attend Jobs and Internships Fair (Spring)
Begin gaining experience outside of the classroom (e.g., work study, assisting with faculty research)
Consider Study Abroad programs, internships, and other external for-credit opportunities
Discuss a complementary minor with your major advisor
Year 3: Credentials
Students complete opportunities to distinguish themselves from others through research, internships, volunteer work, study abroad, etc.
Consider career options in your major
Attend Research and Internship Day (Fall)
Attend ESC Scholars Day presentations (Spring)
Attend Jobs and Internships Fair (Spring)
Attend professional conferences in your field
Develop a resume and have it reviewed
Have a professional photo taken at the Jobs Fair and create a LinkedIn account
Seek out internship opportunities
Run for elected office in the Earth Sciences club
Become a peer mentor, resident assistant, or other campus leadership role
Research graduate programs by contacting potential graduate advisors
Contact potential capstone advisors
Year 4: Targeting
Students polish and refine their job materials and prepare for entry into
Refine job materials with Career ServicesPRACTICE professional networking and interviewing
Continue building your professional profile
Begin applying for post-graduation positions
Present at Scholars Day and/or professional conferences
Complete capstone experience
Enroll in ESC 492 or 494/495
Refine communication and critical thinking skills
Take the GRE and apply to grad programs (if interested)
Attend Research and Internship Day (Fall), and Jobs and Internships Fair (Spring)
Seek another internship opportunity
Send resumes and cover letters to potential employers during and after Winter Break
Update , scrub, and align all social media accounts
