5Q: Ryne Weiss Conducts Geochemical Research at WKU, Michigan State University

Our “Five Questions” (5Q) series keeps rolling with Ryne Weiss, a second-year student from Madison County. This summer, he is participating in research in WKU’s Department of Geology and Geography.

1. Tell us a little about the project or program in which you participated?

I am participating in Geochemical research with Dr. Andrew Wulff involving the analysis of igneous rocks collected from lava flows in Chile. Using our data, a model will be made to describe volcanic activity that can be applied not only to volcanoes in the Andes system in Chile, but everywhere on earth, and even on other planets. The project that I have joined is nearing its final stages after 8 years of work by many others.

2. What is the part of the summer experience did you enjoy the most?

We took a trip to Michigan State University in Lansing, and there we prepared slides for analysis in their X-Ray Fluorescence, or XRF machine. Preparing these discs involved crushing, then powdering rocks, weighing them out to extreme scientific precision, and then melting them down to a molten state. Pouring lava into a mould is quite a rush and an incredibly memorable experience.

3. How is this different from the way you think most high school students spend their summers?

At any other high school, I wouldn’t have made the contacts to be able to do something like this, nor be presented with the opportunity to do research that is so significant. While I do enjoy relaxing, I am blessed to have such a great opportunity to do this research. However, I don’t mean to imply I am eschewing fun in favor of work. Rather, I am spending my mornings and early afternoons contributing to something important, before I go home and spend time with friends.

4. How does this research experience or internship fit into your educational and professional goals?

While I haven’t quite decided what I’m going to do yet, this research has gotten me very interested in geology, certainly to the point that I will start taking Geology classes next year. As far as my future goes, working with an experienced researcher like Dr. Wulff, and gaining experience doing real scientific research opens a large number of doors for me that wouldn’t be otherwise.

5. What are you looking forward to the most about your second year at the Academy?

I very much am looking forward to my second year at the academy to broaden my horizons, continue with research, meet new friends, and spend time with old ones. I plan on being more involved in extracurricular activities such as Mock Trial, and my position as an Academy Avatar will give me a fantastic opportunity to give back to the program that I owe so much to.