Name: Carmen George Discipline: Masters, Environmental Health Expected Graduation Date: Spring 2004

"PEAKS has done a tremendous amount for me academically. PEAKS gave me extra motivation to apply to graduate school. I am also learning more about Epidemiology and gaining valuable research experience. I am also making money to pay for my graduate education."

Hometown:
Beclabito, NM
Undergraduate Degree:
BS in Environmental Science
New Mexico State University ; Las Cruces, NM
Research Topic:

Faculty Mentor:
Dr. Nuckols
Career Goals:
I would like to have a job where I am helping the Native American community. I would like to see my education being used to help Native Americans succeed. Some of my career choices are professor at community college, professor at university, researcher, or environmental health specialist.
Starting Master of Science program for Environmental Health. 2-2 ½ years until I attain my degree.

Graduate school / life balance:
I haven't started grad school yet but I hope I will get to jog, swim, read, and travel.

Words of Inspiration:
I think people should know why they are in school. What is their ultimate purpose? What are your motives? Is it to help yourself, help others, or help a particular group of people. Once you realize where your heart is then, you can be more focused and more excited about going and being in grad school.

Research Topic:
For the summer 2002, it is 'Determining Exposure Metrics for the Study of Drinking Water Quality in Relation to Kidney Cancer Incidence in New Mexico.' For my Master's Thesis, I hope it will be a project similar but for the Navajo Nation.