Summer 5Q: Leah Cannady Studies Geothermal and Solar Systems at Ft. Knox

Since 2010, the Gatton Academy has offered students the ability to pursue summer research experiences through the Gatton Research Internships Grants (RIG) program.  Made possible through the generous support of Mr. Carol Martin “Bill” Gatton, the program offers competitive grants to Gatton Academy students between their junior and senior years to support summertime research internships across the Commonwealth and the world.  By providing a funding mechanism, the program directly creates new avenues for growth and exploration.  This is the second installment in this summer’s series where we share insights from students who are the recipients of our 2012 grants.

 

Leah Cannady of Brandenburg is spending her summer studying the efficiency of Geothermal Systems and Solar Panels across regions of the country.  Her research is being conducted at the US Army Corps of Engineers at Ft. Knox under the guidance of engineer Thomas McQuary.  We had a chance to catch up with Leah earlier this summer.

 

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

 

Spending my summer at the Corp of Engineers in Fort Knox, Kentucky has opened my eyes to a new field of study and expanded my interest in engineering as a career.

 

2. What is the part of the summer experience you are enjoying most?

 

The most enjoyable aspect of my research experience this summer has been meeting so many new people and making new connections with important people in the engineering field that can help me down the road. With jobs becoming so competitive, it’s important to have useful contacts in the field and I have made many of those this summer.

 

3. What has been the biggest change you have experienced in your first year at the Gatton Academy?

 

During my first year at Gatton, my biggest change has been self-reliance. I am now more self-sufficient and am capable of making important decisions and accomplishing tasks on my own.

 

4. How does the Gatton Academy help Kentucky from your point of view?

 

The Gatton Academy gives us as students the privilege of studying such a rigorous curriculum at such a young age at no cost, therefore making students want to give back—whether it’s financially or through service, benefitting Kentucky in the long run.

 

5. What did you learn on your first day at the Academy that a new student should look out for?

 

On my first day at the Academy, I was terrified and knew no one. Now, I consider it my home and have met so many great people that I know will be life-long friends.