24 May Get to Know Me: Jeanie Lai, Biological and GIS Resource Assistant
Hi there, my name is Jeanie Lai! Just a few days ago, I graduated with a Master of Science in Geographic Information Science for Development and Environment (GISDE) from Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. For summer 2018, I am super thrilled to have been selected as a participant in the Mosaics in Science Internship Program. On the day following my graduation, I began my journey as a Biological and GIS Resource Assistant at Minute Man National Historical Park in Concord, Massachusetts. Because the vast majority of my days in Massachusetts have been dedicated to my studies in school, I am looking forward to contributing my skills to the operations of a national park that is less than an hour from where I attended school. Upon moving to Massachusetts, I immediately noticed the amount of fascinating historical and natural sites available to the public. Luckily, I get to continue learning more about Massachusetts history and culture this summer!

Fall 2017: Exploring Wachusett Mountain in Princeton, MA with graduate students Michael Endicott and Zheng Gong.
Before graduate school, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and a GIS Certificate in 2014 from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). Long before that, I was raised within the urban confines of Baltimore City. During one summer camp day (I had just completed 3rd grade at this time.), a group of instructors from a nature center presented neat activities pertaining to nature that ultimately piqued my interest in science and appreciation for nature. Growing up in a city, it was difficult to gain access to large natural spaces, so I took advantage of every small opportunity of nature exposure during school and summer camp trips. These small opportunities would lead me to learn how to swim, hike, photograph, and eventually, study the outdoors as a desired profession.

Summer 2017: Exploring the scenic outdoors of Colorado.
Last summer, I had a phenomenal experience contributing to and learning about U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Lakewood, Colorado as a GIS Technician. This summer, I am thankful to be given this opportunity with Mosaics because this program encompasses what I stand for. Being a participant for me means encouraging underrepresented groups in STEM fields, supporting natural resource conservation, and dedicating my life to public service. Throughout these summer weeks, I look forward to sharing with you all more about Minute Man National Historical Park, and my work tasks and adventures within this park. Please stay tuned for my weekly posts!
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