Cindy Le
My mind was blown because when you turn on the tap, (water) doesn't just come out. There's so much politics behind it. There are so many issues going on. That's when I really got into it because it connects the science with the policies and with everyday people.
Le initially majored in biochemistry, but changed her mind after taking a class from Pacific hydrologist Laura Radamacher. After graduating from Pacific, she earned her master's degree from Friends University in Kansas and now focuses on water, air and waste treatment.
Q: When did you know water was what you wanted to study?
A: I guess it was after Laura Radamacher's class, the intro. When I took it, I was like, "I like this." I really like science, but I also like to talk to people. I like to connect the dots and go into policy. My mind was blown because when you turn on the tap, (water) doesn't just come out. There's so much politics behind it. There are so many issues going on. That's when I really got into it because it connects the science with the policies and with everyday people.
Q: What kind of experiential learning opportunities did you have?
A: I did research with Laura (on acid mine drainage). I think it's important to let students know they should talk to their professors because for me, what I use most today isn't just what I learned in the classroom. I think it's important to take students outside of the classroom and put them in the real working world even as an intern photocopying stuff, because at least they get the flow. That was a big culture shock for me to go from college and intellectual and really smart people to (being) in the working world where you're working with not just the geologists but admin people. You're going to work with engineers; you're going to work with a full range of people.
Q: What advice do you have for students considering Geological and Environmental Science?
A: I would definitely tell them to talk to their professors and put themselves out there. I know that being in college, all you see if your test scores and your grades, I would tell them, do well but don't let that bog you down. Don't let that discourage you from doing what you want. I would advise them to get out there, get to know people that are working in the field and get their perspective. Go intern. Put yourself out there. I guess that would apply to any college student.