My interests in physical oceanography stemmed from my passion to study continuously changing phenomena in nature, such as tropical cyclones! This urge to study weather events began around the time Tropical Cyclone Sandy hit my hometown in Rockland County, NY. From preparing for a storm with my family to me unfortunately sleeping right through such a big event, I had this feeling that my interest in weather was established. It was in my Earth science class in high school that I had the chance to study large scale weather systems in more detail. With an understanding of math, physics and a little bit of meteorology, I decided to major in Atmospheric and Oceanic science at The University of Maryland (UMD)! At UMD, I participated in different research internship programs, one of which was the driving force to me finding my path to air-sea interaction and oceanography. I wanted to use my knowledge of atmospheric concepts and apply it to real world issues. This need led me to participate in NSF’s Northeast Partnership for Atmospheric and Related Sciences REU at Hobart and William Smith College.
My work in this program involved the evaluation of weather patterns associated with prolonged low visibility events in Greenland. I loved every aspect of that project because it enabled me to think about larger impacts to society. I love atmospheric science, but I also knew that our world’s oceans are a big part in the changing dynamics of weather systems. So, I decided to put more emphasis on air-sea interaction and hurricane research! Because of this I sought after experiences in air-sea interaction work and was fortunate enough to participate in Texas A&M University’s REU: Observing the Ocean. My project was assessing the relationship between ocean heat content and tropical cyclone precipitation and intensity.
So here it was! My journey in studying the awesome relationship between atmospheric and oceanic science took off! I wanted to continue to learn more about this interaction and decided to apply to Rutgers University to work with Dr. Travis Miles in the Rutgers University Ocean Observing Leadership group! Currently, my dissertation work examines how tropical cyclones influence ocean responses in coastal and open ocean regions! I will be using weather research forecasting and regional ocean models in addition to ocean observed data from underwater autonomous vehicles or gliders, to better capture the surface and subsurface dynamics. Both model and observations will help to accurately track and predict these weather systems and their potential impacts. Since my dissertation contains elements of modeling, I took part in NCAR’s Bridge to Graduate Visitor’s program to develop more atmospheric collaborations and continue to refine my project! But my work is not important unless I find ways to share it with other scientists and the public. Through my guest lectures and presentations, I really connect with those around me and feel excited to continue the work as it will shed light on the influence of these phenomena, especially, under climate change.
Outside of my thesis work, I continued my interest in mentorship and outreach through programs like the SLOAN Stars and the Rutgers Science Explorer program. Additionally, to gain more knowledge and skills needed for leadership roles in academia or administration, I am a current fellow in Rutgers University Pre-Doctoral Leadership Development Academy. When I am not working, I love coaching youth soccer, finding unique styles to do on my hair and decorating for Halloween!