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Ohio University is closed for Winter Break.

All OHIO campuses and centers will be closed from Dec. 23, 2024, through Jan. 1, 2025, to observe the University’s 2024 Winter Break Closure. This annual closure recognizes and rewards the contributions of all employees on all campuses.

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Emily Simpson

Emily Simpson, profile picture
Emily Simpson

Ohio University B.S Geological Sciences ’19, The University of Oklahoma M.S Geology ‘21

I originally found a passion for geology in my hometown of Ashtabula, Ohio. I grew up loving the outdoors and spending a lot of time hiking through local parks where I became fascinated by the rocks I saw. I first learned about the rock cycle in my 8th grade science course and was totally captivated. My class also watched the fantastic geology movie, Dante’s Peak, starring Pierce Brosnan and I fell in love (with geology!).

After realizing that this could be a career, I was excited to start researching colleges that I might want to attend. I visited SO many schools before Ohio University, but after my first steps on the bricks in Athens, I knew I was home. During my time at Ohio University, I became very involved in the department as the president of Sigma Gamma Epsilon and a member of the Geology Club. I credit my success, both during and after my time at Ohio University, in large part to the connections I made with the geology alumni and, of course, thanks to the amazing professors in the department.

I focused my undergraduate senior thesis on sample processing techniques for investigations of shock-metamorphosed dolomite. I continued my interest in impact craters and dolomite during my time in graduate school at the University of Oklahoma. While at Oklahoma, I had the opportunity to intern with Pioneer Natural Resources. I attribute my initial interest in this oil internship to my mentors on Geology’s Alumni Advisory Board. Following my time in graduate school, I was able to start my career in the mining industry at RHI Magnesita as a direct result of a connection with an Ohio University geology alumna.

I benefitted greatly from the connections I made with Ohio University geology alumni during my time as a student and because of that, I am very excited to be on the other side and help future geologists who are currently studying at Ohio University. I am active on LinkedIn and would love to hear from any students looking for advice or who just want to chat!