Class of 2027

Why did you become an ambassador? I became an ambassador to share the fun, interesting, and important work geographers do and to guide prospective and current students interested in topics such as people, places, culture, and the environment toward the field of geography.

Why did you choose Geography? Because I've always been interested in the social sciences, I realized what I found most fascinating was how space and place affect how we interact with the world around us, and that a geographic lens can offer unique and valuable answers to many of the topics I enjoy studying.

What do you enjoy most about Geography? I love the interdisciplinary nature of geography and the wide range of course offerings the program has. In the core classes alone, you learn about the physical side of geography, the human side, and their overlap, all while also learning how to analyze and display geographic information using GIS. There are so many electives that build upon what you learn in the core courses, and you can really dive deeper into the topics you find most interesting with your concentration(s).

What is your favorite class or project? My favorite class has been Geography of Appalachia with Dr. Adam Dohrenwend. I took this course in Spring 2026, and my favorite memory was our multi-day road trip through West Virginia. Experiencing the places and topics we discussed in class firsthand made the course especially memorable.

What clubs, student organizations, or activities are you involved in? Geography Club and Gamma Theta Upsilon.

What is something you love to do outside of class? I enjoy spending my weekends exploring Harrisonburg and the surrounding areas, watching soccer, and going to trivia nights with my friends.

What is your favorite spot on campus? The Arboretum.

If you had to describe your JMU experience in three words: My new home.

What advice would you give to a prospective student? It is okay to not know exactly what you want to do right away, or for that to change down the line! Trying new and different things can help you discover what you are passionate about, even if it is something you never knew about before. This is a perfect time to explore your interests, so don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and take advantage of different opportunities.