Get to know Cara
Please describe the UPP-funded or affiliated project(s) you are currently working on or have worked on in the past?
Assessing Post-Fire Groundwater Dynamics Using Air-Stream Temperature Signal Analysis.
Who are your USGS supervisor and PSU advisor?
My supervisor is Marc Stewart and and advisor is Heejun Chang.
What are your primary responsibilities/roles of your research position?
I'm currently working as a hydrologic technician for the USGS primarily working on water quality and discrete sediment sampling.
What skills have you gained from your research experience?
To be determined! I just started working on my degree in Fall 2025.
What aspects of your project have you enjoyed the most?
I've enjoyed the opportunity to gain new research and analysis skills to apply to my work and research.
What have you learned or hope to learn from this experience?
I hope to gain a better understanding of broadscale hydrologic modeling and geospatial analysis, as well as effectively communicating and collaborating these efforts with others.
What are your academic and/or career aspirations after graduation?
I'd like to build on the skills gained in this program and continue to conduct hydrological research projects that explore processes affecting water quality and instream habitat
What's your favorite way to use or interact with water?
My favorite way to interact with water is through enjoying quiet moments by mountain streams.