5Q: Sarah Pritchett Participates in Geologic Research as Part of Earthwatch’s Student Challenge Awards Program

We continue our “Five Questions” (5Q) with Sarah Pritchett, a second-year student from Clark County. Last month, she participated in the Earthwatch Student Challenge Awards Program in the American southwest.

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

I recently returned from an amazing experience that brought me to New Mexico and Colorado. I was nominated for the Earthwatch Student Challenge Awards Program by a teacher at my old high school. This led to me being invited to participate in geologic research in the Rio Grande Rift. I, along with seven girls from across the country, spent two weeks working with scientists from Los Alamos National Laboratories. Much of our time was spent visiting sites, mostly in Colorado, where we collected rock samples and cores. Then we traveled to the University of New Mexico where we analyzed the paleomagnetism of the various samples using the cryogenic magnetometer, a machine worth upwards of one million dollars. The data collected will be used to determine the types and locations of faults throughout the rift. This information will have many applications ranging from improved prediction of earthquakes to the prevention of contamination of important water supplies.

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

It is so hard to pick just one part of the experience as my favorite; I loved every minute of it. My fellow Earthwatchers made the trip amazing. I now have friends from Minnesota, Oregon, Pennsylvania,
New York, California, and Florida. Also, being with scientists and conducting field research in such a drastically different environment was unbelievable.

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

Most high schoolers tend to think of their summers as a time to relax, a time to rest their minds and not think about learning. They sleep in late, hang out with friends, and take vacations with their families. I, on the other hand, am spending my summer constantly busy and constantly learning. Besides the Earthwatch program in New Mexico, I am also spending a month working with the Student Conservation
Association at Glacier National Park in Montana. All of my traveling is being done alone, I’m making new friends from all over, and, during my trips, my average day starts at 5:30am.

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

Geology is not my field of choice; however, I do intend on becoming a scientist and conducting field research in biology and environmental science. My time in the field helped me reaffirm that I have made the right decision about my future career.

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

I am excited to become even more involved on campus and within the academy. I am looking forward to getting a fresh start with the new Academy Green Club, as well as participating in various other activities,
including Habitat for Humanity and International Club.