Anna Dlugolecki; Masters Student
My area of study is hydrogeology with research focusing on geochemistry and solute transport. I first came to UWM as a special student in 2009 to gain more knowledge about geology; my undergrad degree is a BS in Anthro/Bio/Chem. My interest in water resources is what sparked a change in direction and a desire to pursue a grad degree.
I’ve lived in NY, northern CA, and spent a couple summers in AK. I really liked to move around, but now I accomplish that type of adventure with the occasional cross country road trip. This year is proving to be especially exciting, in a completely new way, as I recently got married and we’re expecting a new addition to the family pretty soon.
- Hometown?
Milwaukee - Previous degrees (Degree and University)?
BS in Anthro/Bio/Chem CUNY-Herbert Lehman College 2007 - Expected graduation date?
Spring 2013 - What is your field of study and how would you describe it to a prospective graduate student?
Hydrogeology, it examines the chemical and physical characteristics of groundwater flow and the interactions between surface water and groundwater. - What brought you to UWM to study Geosciences for your graduate degree?
I wanted to return to Milwaukee, but I also wanted to pursue a grad degree related to water resources, lucky for me UWM has a great program. - What's been your best experience so far?
It’s hard to choose one, I couldn’t be happier with the program and the awesome department-faculty, staff, and classmates. I have to say that I will never forget the field trips, and not just because I have a handful of little yellow write in rain notebooks. - In graduate School, have you gotten the opportunity to travel as part of your education?
Travel for my research has been local; field trips have been statewide and also have included excursions to Upper MI. There is so much geologic diversity to explore here. We’re in a truly unique environment. - What trait or thing has allowed you to succeed in graduate school?
Diligence, I know how important education is and its necessity in building skills which can be applied in other areas beyond the classroom. - Do you have any advice that you would give to a new graduate student in your program?
Everyone has their own survival strategy; you’ll figure it out soon enough, just stay calm and focused. As long as you choose an area that you’re really interested in you’ll be motivated. - What has been the hardest part about being a graduate student?
There are minor things like sleep and free time, but I’ve already gotten so much out of my grad experience that those don’t seem like a big deal in the long run. I just remember the saying “You’ll sleep when you’re dead.” It’s a bit grim but effective at 5am. - What are your plans after you graduate?
The goal is to find work in some aspect of water resource protection/remediation. I would like to find a position which I can still be somewhat hands on in the field. - How would you describe the Department of Geosciences at UWM to a prospective student?
One of the best choices you’ll ever make. There is sense of comradery which makes for a great learning environment. The professors have an open door policy and are exceptional at guiding you in the right direction. - What has been you r favorite activity while you've been in Graduate School in Milwaukee?
This is corny – literally, but I get super excited about sneaking off for my occasional guilty pleasure from the union CORN DOGS! They are so scrumptious! - What do you most enjoy about Milwaukee?
I like checking out the local haunts in different neighborhoods and the smaller towns in the surrounding counties. It probably goes back to the road trip mentality, seeking out little adventures.