Michael Vanden Berg '00
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR MAJOR?
"I am fascinated by our wonderful planet and want to learn as much as possible about it."
MEMORIES OF CALVIN
- Christian camaraderie
- Wonderful geology field trips
- Outstanding geology professors
WHAT AT CALVIN PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR CAREER?
"The writing and public speaking skills I obtained at Calvin are extremely helpful. Also, the geology classes more than prepared me for my Master's degree."
LIFE AFTER CALVIN:
- Master's program in Geology at the University of Utah. As part of my thesis research, I sailed on Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Leg 199 as a physical properties specialist. During this two month cruise, we collected deep sea cores from the Equatorial Pacific as a means to study Cenozoic paleoclimate.
- Completed MSc in Geology in December 2002.
- Worked for the Utah Energy Office for 2 years.
- Married a geologist.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING NOW?
I'm currently working in the Energy and Minerals section of the Utah Geological Survey. I work on a variety of economic geology projects from studying Utah's oil shale resources to studying potential reservoirs for carbon sequestration. I also write the annual "Utah Coal Report" and keep track of all Utah's energy statistics. I serve on several energy-related legislative committees and am treasurer of the Utah Geological Association. I also cite and install 20- and 50-meter anemometer towers as a means to encourage development of Utah's wind energy resource.
When I am not working, I am taking advantage of Utah's wonderful landscape. I mountain bike, ski, hike, camp, golf, etc. etc. every chance I get.
ADVICE TO CURRENT STUDENTS
"Go to conferences (GSA, AGU), talk with professionals, make connections. Try to find work as an intern in a geology-related company. For those of you who would like to pursue a Master's degree; e-mail professors whose interests match your own and inquire about their research. Ask them if they are taking on new grad students. Personal connections, even over e-mail, go a long way."
