Natalia Kalitynska Class of 2007 "I was lucky to be able to combine my research with my job. I work for the Bureau of Economic Geology and what I enjoy the most is the people I work with. Not only are they an extremely helpful resource for my thesis but they also make work fun."
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Degree pursued, advisor, and areas of interest:

I’m pursuing a Master of Arts degree in Energy and Earth Resources. My advisor is Dr. Alfred L. Norman in the Department of Economics. My areas of interest include assessing the value of information in reservoir completion techniques, the economics of oil recovery from oil shale, and carbon dioxide sequestration as a means for an economic and environmentally-friendly method of maximizing oil recovery.

Other degrees:

Bachelor of Arts in Economics, University of Texas at Austin, 2005.

Title of thesis/dissertation:

Economic and engineering evaluation of hydraulic fracturing methods and new natural fracture prediction technology impact on hydraulic fracture treatment outcomes, with Piceance Basin examples.

What sparked your interest in geology, energy, and the environment?

In my third year of studies as an undergraduate student I became interested in applying my knowledge of economics to maximize the utility of a finite resource such as oil or natural gas. I have then decided to pursue a graduate degree in that field.

Why did you choose UT for your studies?

Choosing a graduate school between UT and other universities was a tough choice, mainly because my professors encouraged me to choose a different institution for my graduate studies than my undergraduate school. After comparing Energy and Earth Resources with other programs in the nation, however, I have come to a conclusion that UT was the best choice for me.

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

I was lucky to be able to combine my research with my job. I work for the Bureau of Economic Geology and what I enjoy the most is the people I work with. Not only are they an extremely helpful resource for my thesis but they also make work fun.

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

2003-2004 National Dean’s List Honoree
2004 University of Texas College Scholar
2005 University of Texas College Scholar
2005-2006 Chancellor’s List Honoree

What one research tool could you not live without?

The Blackboard – an online resource that keeps you updated on class assignments, announcements, grades and more.

What are your career goals?

My ultimate career goal, although very ambitious, is to start my own energy company.

Where are you from?

I’m from Wroclaw, Poland.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

My hobbies include dance, outdoor activities, choral singing, playing piano, hiking and travel.

What is your favorite rock?

My favorite rock is granite.

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

I don’t think I can just pick one. I would say definitely boating on Lake Travis, swimming in the Barton Springs swimming pool, listening to live music downtown and joining a UT student organization of your interest to meet people who share your hobbies.

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