Kim Nguyen Undergrad, hydrogeology/ environmental geology Austin, Texas "I was forced to do an event called 'Rocks and Minerals' in high school for the Science Olympiad team I was on. No one wanted to do it…my coach begged me to do it, and I reluctantly agreed. It turned out that I was really good at it, and I started to like what I did."
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Degree pursued and areas of interest:

B.S., hydrogeology/environmental geology

What sparked your interest in geology?

I was forced to do an event called “Rocks and Minerals” in high school for the Science Olympiad team I was on. No one wanted to do it, and to forfeit would mean losses to the team’s overall score. My coach begged me to do it, and I reluctantly agreed. It turned out that I was really good at it, and I started to like what I did.

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

I was born and raised in Austin, and UT was right around the corner. It’s such a well-rounded school, so in addition to being convenient, it would’ve been my choice anyway if I were from somewhere else in Texas.

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

The professors and researchers genuinely care about and love what they do. Most also care about the development of their students. That type of passion attracts students.

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

I’ve received the Wayne Franklin Bowman Endowed Presidential Scholarship, the Robert H. Cuyler Endowed Presidential Scholarship, the Eva Stevenson Woods Endowed Presidential Scholarship. I have been on the Dean’s List and an Honor Student for three straight years.

What one research tool could you not live without?

Google search browser.

What are your career goals?

I would like to be in an environmental field, working in a challenging profession. This would include environmental consulting or environmental field studies with the USGS or EPA. I hope to eventually be dedicated to one company and become a senior employee where I can train others.

Where are you from?

Austin, Texas.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spend time with family and friends; go dancing; bowling; singing karaoke; community activities; clean; work on various self-implemented projects.

What is your favorite rock and why?

I like peridot. Besides its being my birthstone, I really love its bright vibrant green color. The rock has a soothing presence since green is a healing color. Plus, how cool is it that a rock deep from inside the Earth isn’t a nasty black, but rather a nice pretty green?!!

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

For Austin (in general)—participate in one of the city-wide walks (e.g., AIDS Walk, Walk for the Cure). For the UT Campus—take a nap outside in a random spot; watch a squirrel carry out his daily activities.

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