Department of Applied Environmental Science
ESTP Student Explores Post-Fire Landslides
Madalyn Sears, a current Environmental Science, Technology & Policy major, participated in the annual Summer Research Symposium, hosted by UROC. She completed her landslide and post-fire research project under the guidance of Dr. Jimmy Guilinger.
We recently touched base with Madalyn to learn more about her research and overall student experience. Check out her interview below!
What was your research project about?
My project is about landslides occurring 3-5 years post-fire in the Carmel Valley. I look into how hazardous these landslides are compared to landslides that occur right after the fires. I also look into the similarities and differences of both types of landslides.
Why are you interested in this research area and what was your favorite part of your project? Does this tie into your career goals?
This research interests me as I want to pursue a future in post-fire and hazards management to help mitigate damage that post-fire processes cause. My favorite part of this research is that I feel like I am always learning something new, and I love that I am gaining hands-on research experience that I will continue to take with me throughout my career.
Do you have any advice for students interested in pursuing research projects?
My advice to students who want to do research is that it is not as scary as it may seem. There is a whole team of mentors who want you to succeed and are there to offer support whenever you need it!
What is your favorite part of being an undergraduate here in the Department of Applied Environmental Science at CSUMB?
My favorite part about being an undergrad in the Department of AES at CSUMB is that there are so many opportunities to apply your learning in the field. I mean, who can say they get to go on field trips multiple times a semester!!
Congratulations on this experience, Madalyn! We look forward to seeing where your professional and academic endeavors take you!