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Geology, B.S. & B.A. | Class of
Sylvia Nicovich
Tectonic Geomorphologist/Paleoseismologist
Employer: United States Bureau of Reclamation
Job description: I work for the Seismology, Geomorphology, and Geophysics Group of the United States Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) Technical Service Center. My group and I classify fault characteristics for use in seismic hazard assessment of USBR critical infrastructure. Our field work involves geomorphic and geologic mapping, and ultimately excavation of paleoseismic trenches.
About Sylvia
Why did you choose this program?
I was impressed by the list of courses, all of which included ample field trips. Upon my visit to HSU before attending, I was greeted with warmth by the department head (then Dr. Lori Dengler) and was shown the labs, sample collections, and awesome fleet of field vehicles.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
Most courses had a large field component where we were required to make observations, take notes, and complete projects with geologic interpretations. This is exactly what a geologist does--both in academic research and as a professional.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
The breadth of the program was thorough and comprehensive. Our learning spanned from small scale grains of sand, to outcrop-scale sedimentary structures, to valley-scale geomorphology, and finally up to the landscape-scale tectonics of the western United States. Learning these various components and applying concepts at a wide scope prepared me to study and apply geology at a higher level.
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
If you want to have an immersive, hands-on learning experience, Humboldt Geology is right for you!