GSS SPOTLIGHT!
Natalie Munich
Student Technician
What is your education and/or professional background?
I am an Environmental Biology major at Saint Mary's with minors in Zoology and Environmental Sustainability. This is my fourth year working for GSS!
What led you to GIS? More specifically, how did you get to Saint Mary's University of Minnesota (SMUMN) in Winona?
I was recruited by a professor my freshman year who knew GSS would be a great fit for me and my career aspirations. I originally came to Saint Mary's to become a laboratory technologist in the medical field, but soon found out how much I enjoyed the field of ecology. I have stayed with GSS this long because I know how valuable GIS skills are for data analysis and appreciate the friendly environment here.
Explain briefly a project at GSS you've done that contributed to your overall knowledge and educational experience.
I have been mapping the state of Wyoming for the BLM project since I first started here and have gained an extensive familiarity with wetland classification and trends. My capability of working with GIS made me become noticed for internships, such as my REU at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS). I was able to use ArcGIS independently for components of my research project that analyzed the relationship between reef fish trophic guilds and benthic habitat.
How do you see GIS fitting into your future?
GIS will definitely be part of my future, with my plans to attend graduate school and earn a PhD studying the ecology of fishes. GIS is so valuable within the field of ecological research so I am confident that I will be using GIS software for my research to analyze and illustrate data.
Where can we find you outside of GSS?
Outside of GSS, you can find me in the library or the dance studio. I have been a Dance Repertory Company member with the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts in Winona since my freshman year. For our spring production Paquita Paella, coming up in early April, I am dancing in the hip hop, jazz, and contemporary pieces.