Brian Cornette Undergraduate, geology Lafayette, Louisiana "I came to UT as a biology major, but after taking an intro course in geology, I decided it was what I wanted to pursue."
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What sparked your interest in geology?

My parents are both oil and gas engineers, and my father helped me grow an interest when we began collecting rock specimens as a child.

Why did you choose the Jackson School’s UT Department of Geological Sciences for your studies?

I came to UT as a biology major, but after taking an intro course in geology, I decided it was what I wanted to pursue.

What do you enjoy the most about your studies or research? About working at the Jackson School?

I really enjoy mineral identification, especially regarding the use of microscopes. I like small-scale mineral work and large-scale tectonic studies.

Want to share any highlights such as awards, special events, or professional presentations of your work?

I won the undergraduate petrography award, which included a $500 cash prize reward.

What one research tool could you not live without?

To be practical, it would have to be a Brunton surveying compass, but it would be really hard to leave behind a camera. You know what they say about what a picture is worth…

What are your career goals?

Although I’m still very much exploring my options, I wouldn’t be surprised to find myself end up in the oil and gas industry like my parents.

Where are you from?

I was born in Lafayette, Louisiana, but I’ve lived almost all of my life in Houston, Texas.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I spend a lot of my spare time doing artwork. I do a mix of realism and cartoons, and I use pencils and a digital art tablet for most of my work. I also like movies, video games, working with computers, and cooking.

What is your favorite rock and why?

That’s a hard question. I think gemstones are a fascinating part of geology, and I think the Australian Black Opals are the most beautiful stones in existence.

What fun activity would you recommend to an incoming UT student?

I’ve been spoiled in having two old friends as roommates, one of whom I do almost everything with, but I would recommend trying to find clubs, even unofficial ones, that are related to your fields of interest. UT is filled with opportunities for fun, aside from being part of Austin.

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