The University of Colorado
Obtaining a BA in Geological Sciences at the No.1 school in the world for geoscience in one of the most beautiful geological locations taught me the many skills needed in order to become a professional Geological Scientist.
At the junction of the high plains and the Rocky Mountains, the Boulder area represented a natural outdoor laboratory where I was able to study geological features of all ages in diverse settings, and observe earth processes firsthand. The fieldwork we did in the Rocky Mountain region was an essential part of our research.
1
Structural Geology
Introduced the basic principles and processes involved in the deformation of natural rocks and minerals and the techniques used to analyze a variety of common geological structures (e.g., fractures, folds, fault zones).
2
Mineralogy
Covered origin, occurrence, identification, classification, and uses of minerals with emphasis on applications of mineralogy to economic geology and petrology.
3
Petrology
Studied field relations, petrography, petrology, chemistry, and origins of igneous and metamorphic rocks by means of lectures, reading, and lab and field experience. Labs included instruction in the fundamentals of optical petrography and the study of rocks in thin section.
4
Geochemistry
I build upon principles introduced in general chemistry in order to predict and interpret chemical dynamics in Natural environmental systems. We explored the formation and chemical differentiation of the early Earth, how chemical weathering and mineral dissolution and precipitation modified the Earth's surface, and how redox biogeochemistry shapes aquatic environments.
5
Sedimentology/Stratigraphy
Introduced the study of sedimentary rocks emphasizing their origin, characteristics, and interpretation; and the principles and techniques for establishing the temporal order and spatial distribution of sedimentary layers.
6
Principles of Geophysics
Gained an introduction to fundamental geophysics including seismology, geomagnetism, gravity, and electromagnetic methods with applications to plate tectonics and exploration of the subsurface.
7
Field Active Tectonics
Analyzed active geologic structures, including strike-slip fault systems, secondary structures in stepovers, and related eruptive centers. This course also included the use of digital imagery, elevation models, offset geomorphic features, and Quaternary deposits to determine local deformation rates and their relation to plate motions.
8
Field Geophysics
Applied geophysical field techniques and data interpretation to study geological and engineering problems. Fieldwork included seismic, gravity, magnetic, and electrical measurements. An example of a Gravity and Magnetics/ Seismic Refraction study I did can be found here (click here).
