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 8^th-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!