Name: Shannon Jackson

Internship, Co-op or Research Site: U.S. Geological Survey MD-DE-DC Water Science Center

Position Title: GIS and Data Analysis Student Contractor

Major(s)/Minor(s): B.S. Environmental Science, Certificate in Geographic Information Science

Expected Graduation Year: May 2016 

Briefly describe your internship, co-op,  or research opportunity, including your day-to-day tasks, responsibilities, and assignments.

I am a paid student contracted employee at the USGS Water Science Center right on campus at BWtech North. I work alongside two Geographic Information Systems analysts working under the National Water-Quality Assessment Program (NAWQA). I utilize programs such as ArcMap, SAS, R, Excel and Python to analyze and process water quality data used by researchers at the USGS and other agencies. Our data is used to understand whether water conditions are getting better or worse over time and how natural features and human activities affect those conditions. 

Describe the process of obtaining your internship, research, or co-op opportunity.

One of my professors, Joseph School, who manages the GIS and cartography labs at UMBC and teaches two GIS courses (GES 286 and GES 386) recommended I apply for the position. On the same day I emailed the coordinator a copy of my resume, unofficial transcripts, and a portfolio of GIS work. The following day I had an interview, and by the end of the week I was hired! It was a quick process.

What have you enjoyed the most about your position or organization/company?

I really enjoy learning hands-on. My Dad has always told me that college is about "learning how to learn." While your grades are a reflection of your capabilities in the classroom, the real test comes when you must translate this knowledge in the workplace. Internships allow you to acquire skills and real-world experience before you are overwhelmed by the expectations of a full time position.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?

My work allows researchers across the country to access up to date, reliable data for their projects. This data allows for stakeholders to design and implement strategies for managing, protecting, and monitoring water resources in many different hydrologic and land-use settings across the Nation.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?

Start forming relationships with faculty in your department from day one. They are the ones who watch you learn, grow, and improve. They have forged long careers and have connections with employers all over the Baltimore-DC area and even across the country. Don't be afraid to ask them for recommendations or opportunities, because they are here to help. I also recommend signing up for your department's listserv. Professors are constantly sending updates on available positions in our area. Don't be afraid to apply for positions even if you feel under qualified. 

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