ALEX GONZALEZ
Alex chats about his experience
Where are you from? and what do you miss most about your hometown?
I grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia, PA. What I miss most about my hometown are my family and friends. And oh yeah, Philly Cheesesteaks and Philly Soft Pretzels.
What drew you to Meteorology and Atmospheric Science?
I was always interested in Math, Physics, and the natural sciences (especially tornadoes), even as a youngster. When I was in high school looking into going to college my father mentioned combining all of my interests by studying Meteorology or Physics. I applied to schools for Physics and/or Meteorology. After reading more about Physics curricula I realized Physics was way too theoretical for me, so I chose Meteorology.
Why did you decide to move to Colorado? What made you choose CSU?
I was in an internship in Boulder, CO at NCAR (The National Center for Atmospheric Research) for 2 summers called SOARS (Significant Opportunities in Atmospheric Research and Science) and I loved Colorado not only for its natural beauty, but also for the active and healthy lifestyle people live. I worked with a scientist at NCAR and a professor at CSU and really loved the research I did with the professor at CSU (Colorado State University). He is now my advisor!
What is your all-time favorite thing to do?
I love playing basketball, competitively and for fun. I also enjoy cooking ethnic cuisine, especially Mexican food.
What is one thing you've done in your life that you are surprised by?
I began composing Pop and R&B music in 5th grade and was on Star Search in 8th grade. I composed music until mid-college (undergrad), when my studies became a lot more time consuming.
What is one place you would love to travel to? and why
I would love to travel to Brazil. I think that Brazilian people have such an interesting culture (art, music, and food), influenced by so many other regions of the world. Also, the people are beautiful, and the climate and geography of the country is very unique.
What do you love about being a graduate student?
I really appreciate my advisor. He is one of nicest and most encouraging people I have ever known. I also love the research and the courses that the CSU Department of Atmospheric Science offers, and the friends I have met here!
In 10 years where do you see yourself?
I hope to have some sort of research position at either at University or a research facility.
What is your long-term career goal?
I would love to do research in Atmospheric Science or a related field. I also strive have a balanced and healthy life in and outside of work.
Do you have any advice for an incoming graduate student?
Work hard and be passionate about your aspiring research area. Also, make sure you have hobbies outside of work, and try to live a healthy lifestyle. Having hobbies outside of work will make the stressful times in graduate school much more bearable!
What is your reserch?
Good question. I would have to say I am first and foremost an Atmospheric Dynamicist with a focus on formulating simple models of tropical weather. I also have an interest in climate and more complex modeling of the general circulation of the atmosphere and ocean.
