Class of 2028

Minor: Jazz Studies

Why did you become an ambassador? I wanted to help students feel comfortable and at home in the program. When I first started, I had a lot of questions and wasn't sure where to start. The upperclassmen and faculty who took the time to answer those questions, offer advice, and point me toward opportunities made a huge difference in my experience. I want to be that person for someone else, whether they're a new student or anyone still finding their place in the program.

Why did you choose Geography? Because I've always been drawn to research and to understanding how places, people, and global events connect. Geography let me turn that curiosity into a real skillset.

What do you enjoy most about Geography? What I enjoy most about the Geography program is the freedom to explore your own interests. The different concentrations allow you to choose your own topics, regions, or issues, so you can dig into what you actually want to learn more about. I also love the small class sizes, which let you get really close with your peers and professors.

What is your favorite class or project? My favorite class was GEOG 487. Working in Google Earth Engine, I learned to process and analyze satellite imagery at scale, and the hands-on assignments forced me to think critically about how we turn raw data into real answers

Who has been an influential professor, mentor, or advisor? Dr. Bonsal has been the most influential person during my time at JMU. He has completely changed my perspective on how I approach geography and added another level of attention to detail to everything I do. His guidance has made me a more careful, thoughtful researcher, and I'm grateful for the way he challenges his students.

What clubs, student organizations, or activities are you involved in? I'm a member of Gamma Theta Upsilon, the geography honor society, and I'm involved in music through the Marching Royal Dukes, pep band, and jazz ensemble.

What is your favorite spot on campus? The King Hall rooftop garden. It's very hidden and peaceful, which makes it the perfect place to slow down and reset between classes.