Category: Geospatial Information Sciences

EPPS has introduced me to a number of faculty members who have helped me to achieve my goals in my academics as well as future career paths. I’ve been able to participate in research of different types, and have had access to many resources that have helped me to gain a better understanding of the field of GIS. EPPS is a school where students can find mentorship in any field, and through doing so, I have built confidence in my own abilities over the years.

Be open to asking for help. Your professors and seniors want to see you succeed and are always willing to assist if you ask.

Being part of EPPS has provided a welcoming, multicultural environment that supports both academic growth and cultural adaptation. The school has helped me adjust smoothly to a new cultural setting, and the faculty are not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely supportive.

The staff and particular program I am in at EPPS has helped me more clearly visualize the future I want; flexible in application but stable in reward. GIS, and other programs at EPPS, can be pursed in a career context without having to be locked behind a desk inside or be trapped outside with little to no reward. The various backgrounds and accomplishments of staff and students opened the curtain to seeing mixed applications of, perhaps thought of initially as linear, programs offered at EPPS. 

I aim to become a Spatial Data Scientist—an explorer who merges the worlds of data and geography.

My interest in environmental policy led me to Geospatial Information Sciences. Although I originally entered as a Political Science major, I was interested in the hands-on research applications of GIS.

I think one of the biggest reasons I’ve been successful in the GIS program is because I’ve taken the opportunities that have been offered to me, even though they were out of my comfort zone: from classes I’ve never heard of to research in Guyana and GIS internships.

Learning in class is not adequate for your research. To work well in academia, training in reading, writing, and critical thinking is necessary.

Make complete use of what EPPS has to offer and see how the outside world offers you the opportunity to excel.

Great faculty. Great facilities. Great curriculum.

While it is easy to focus entirely on the material in the classes, be curious and ask questions. Try to figure out ways your education could be applied to find a solution to other areas.

Get to know the faculty during your time as a student — it’s vital for finding a job when you’re done.

In the GIS world, you really need to get to know your professors. They will be a valuable and appreciated resource for you for years to come.