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Katie Kerstiens
Graduate Engineer
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Always follow your curiosities and interests, no matter what anyone tells you.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
I am a water resources engineer who works on stream restoration projects, floodplain mapping, and hydrologic and hydraulic modeling.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS FIELD?
I decided on this field when I took a special senior science class at my high school. This class focused on rivers and water quality. That is how I knew I wanted to go into water resources. I then had an internship during college focusing on stream restoration and that solidified my interest.
WHAT DO YOU LOOK AT & THINK, "I WISH YOUNGER ME WOULD HAVE KNOWN THIS WAS POSSIBLE?"
I wish younger me would have known it was possible to get my master's degree. Never in a million years did I think I was capable of getting a master's degree. It wasn't until my female advisor encouraged me to apply. Two years later here I am having just graduated!
WHY DO YOU LOVE WORKING IN STEM?
I have always loved learning and have always loved school. While school eventually ends, learning never ends being in a STEM field. I love being able to problem solve everyday at work and having opportunities to always learn new things.
BEST ADVICE FOR NEXT GENERATION?
Always follow your curiosities and interests, no matter what anyone tells you.
Never stop asking questions.
Don't be afraid to show your knowledge to others.
Always advocate for yourself, you are your biggest advocate in life.
You are fully capable of ANYTHING you set your mind to.
Push yourself outside your comfort zone and always be willing to grow.
INSPO / FUN FACT
Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful women, who have her back.