CONNIE KELLY EARNS
NGS INTERNSHIP 


By MARIA GRENINGER

Connie Kelly, a graduate student in geography at Indiana State, has received a coveted National Geographic Society Internship for 2001.

Kelly, of Worthington, will intern at the National Geographic Headquarters in Washington, D.C., from Sept. 4 through Dec. 14.

"This is an excellent opportunity for Connie since, on average, only about 10 of these internships are awarded each year out of about 1,200 to 2,000 applicants," said William Dando, chair of the department of geography, geology and anthropology. "This is, perhaps, the most prestigious internship that an undergraduate in geography can secure in North America."

The purpose of this internship program is to furnish students with a professional learning experience through participation in various geography-related projects. Kelly also will be given the opportunity to apply her knowledge and classroom techniques to practical procedures and geographic outreach programs. The internship is paid and will provide a stipend to cover travel expenses between ISU and Washington.

Kelly earned her bachelor’s degrees in sociology and geography in 1999, both from Indiana State University. She also will earn her master’s in geography later this year.

While attending ISU, Kelly has worked as a research assistant, has helped manage ISU’s climate lab and has conducted weather observations for the National Weather Service.

"She has strong leadership, lots of good ideas and lots of energy. Those are the qualities that I value in her," said Greg Bierly, assistant professor of geography and director of ISU’s climatology lab. "She’s a conscientious student in almost every way. Under her guidance, the lab has really taken off in its service to the community and in its organization."

Some of Kelly’s research interests include the study of land cover change, coal extraction and reclamation and earth science. Upon completion of her master’s, she hopes to work in natural resource management with an emphasis in remote sensing, technical writing and graphic illustrations to promote environmental awareness.

"This will be a wonderful experience for me, I’m sure," said Kelly, the mother of a 12-year-old daughter, Aliza. "I’m looking forward to whatever challenges may lie ahead."

March 21, 2001