“The professors have given me the opportunity to experience a wide variety of studies and research, allowing me to make a better career decision for my future and helping me be more accurate with what I want to focus on in life.”
Always having been passionate about the outdoors, Jackson has found many valuable experiences as a Geology major within the Environment, Geography and Earth Sciences Department. One of the things that Jackson has enjoyed about majoring in Geology is the small class sizes and the tight-knit atmosphere among other Geology students. He says “We end up taking many classes together and know each other pretty well as we progress through the years”. Jackson has also appreciated opportunities within the department to take trips to interesting geological sites. His favorite experience has been his study away trip to Patagonia, entitled “Glaciers and Mountains at the End of the World”. During this trip, Jackson enjoyed both the cultural aspects as well as the geology of the area, saying “It was such a cool opportunity to experience another part of the world as well as witness some of the most interesting geologic formations on Earth!”. The faculty within the Environment, Geography and Earth Sciences Department have also been integral to Jackson’s experience at Gustavus. He has appreciated how small class sizes have allowed for personal connections with faculty for students, and feels that he has developed a close relationship with all of his professors. He has felt supported and understood by faculty in class as well as in future career plans. Outside of his time in the Environment, Geography and Earth Sciences Department, Jackson is very involved on campus. He is a member of the cross country and track teams, choir, handbells, and many clubs on campus.