Amanda is currently employed as a Water Resources Administrator for Little Thompson Water District in Berthoud, Colorado.
What led you to a natural resources education/career?
I wanted to work outside more.
What do you identify as your 'big break?' Did CSU have anything to do with it?
I was an intern with Little Thompson was after I graduated from CSU. I went off to do other water-related jobs and Little Thompson called me back a few years later asking if I would return to work for them full time.
When I went to CSU, I worked at the Histology Lab at the Vet Clinic. One of the veterinarians there knew someone working in water, which turned out to be Little Thompson’s Operations Manager. He connected me to them and a few weeks later, I had an internship here!
Can you reflect on your time and experiences at CSU and how it benefited you?
I loved the camaraderie of the Watershed Science program. It was such a small group that we all would suffer and succeed together. We all knew each other and would be in the WCNR computer lab together often. It was such a fun experience and I met some of my best friends to this day through this program!
How did CSU set you up for success in your career field?
My professors were so supportive and willing to work with any of us whether personally or professionally, but they definitely challenged us to produce our best work. Thanks to snow hydrology, which was super difficult to me at the time, I have a way better grasp on Microsoft Excel.
What advice do you have for current students or recent grads?
Watershed Science applies to such a broad range of jobs. Do not to dismiss any water-related jobs as they might be something you did not expect. For example, I did not expect to go into municipal water and into water rights and water law. I thought I would work in water quality, but here I am! I have learned so many different topics about water.