Geology Society of Maine,
students talk employment
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — Members of the Geology Society of Maine held their spring meeting at the University of Maine at Presque Isle April 13, with part of their day spent discussing employment options for those interested in geology.
THE GEOLOGY SOCIETY OF MAINE met April 13 at the University of Maine at Presque Isle, with part of their spring session spent talking with students about the job possibilities available to geology majors. Pictured from left are: Jesse Clark, vice president of UMPI’s Geology Club; Alice Kelley, GSM chair; Drt. Steve Kite, keynote speaker; and Kasey Watson, Geology Club treasurer. 
“We have a wide range of members who represent various government agencies, private consulting firms, as well as college and university students,” said Alice Kelley, GSM chair.
Kelley, who has a background in mining, said the day included a panel discussion, open to students, which highlighted the types of jobs available for someone with an earth science background.
“There are jobs involving groundwater, mining, exploration,” she said.
Jesse Clark, vice president of UMPI’s Geology Club, said he plans to look for a job in the field, upon graduation.
‘I’ve been a member of the club for four years, vice president for three. We’ve done a lot of in-depth field trips — studied glacial processes to sediment,” said Clark.
Kasey Watson, treasurer of the club, also attended the meeting.
“The club goes on a big spring field trip. We went to D.C. and Iceland last year,” said Watson.
“The Grand Canyon is another destination we’re planning on for a future trip,” said Clark.
Watson said being a member of the club and attending the GSM meeting provides unique opportunities.
“There are more opportunities to get to know professionals and learn what qualities they look for,” Watson said.
Clark said he looks forward to attending at least one of the Society’s meetings each year.
“I usually try to make it to the spring meeting,” Clark said.
Both Watson and Clark are currently working in the community while attending classes at UMPI.
“I was hired as the executive director of the Central Aroostook Soil and Water Conservation District. I’m working part-time until I graduate, then I’ll be full-time,” said Watson.
Clark is also working in his field of interest in a temporary position, although he would like to find something full-time when the time comes.
“I work for the Cooperative Extension as a lab/research assistant. I’m not sure what I’ll do when I graduate but I’m sure I’ll find something,” said Clark.
This marks Kelley’s second year as GSM president.
“This marks the end of my term. I’ve enjoyed representing the organization and meeting such talented students. They’re learning skills that will always be needed,” said Kelley.
