Kyra Copp

Tell us about your work/ research. What kinds of things do you do? 

I am currently attending DePauw University to get a Bachelor's degree in geology. In my time there, I’ve had the opportunity to study Earth’s fossil history along with its depositional environments. This past semester, I had the opportunity to take a class that had me map/study the Resting Spring Mountain Range in California, both digitally and in the field.

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I've had an interest in marine and geologic sciences since I was 3. I've always had a big interest in learning about the ocean and Earth's geologic history. Originally I had started my university experience intending to major in biology. However, that changed when I began helping the geoscience department organize/catalog its fossil collection and helped to set up a fossil display in the math and science building. Since then, I declared a geology major to get experience in courses that could connect with my initial interests in both marine and geological sciences.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

Growing up I was introduced to a family friend named Dr. Jodie Rummer, when she heard of my interest in marine sciences, she became a mentor to me. She acted as a guide in figuring out where to focus my studies and encouraged me to reach out to researchers involved in studies I was interested in so that I could find opportunities that would further my education and career.

What element of your work/ study do you think is the most fascinating?

The most fascinating thing about my studies is that I gain an understanding of how the Earth we know today has formed. I've been able to get firsthand experiences in how stratigraphic layers in rock have formed and the conditions that caused them to deposit that way. It allows me a way to almost look back in time to what used to exist in these regions.

How did you get involved with the Nautilus Exploration Program?  

I found Ocean Exploration Trust through an email sent out by one of my professors. The email talked about the Student Experiences Aboard Ships (STEMSEAS) program. When I read about the research we would be getting to do in the program, I found an interest in it and decided to apply.

What other jobs led you to your current career? 

While it wasn’t a career, the Field Experiences course I took in my last semester led me to having more experience with mapping areas like the Resting Spring Range and provided a brief introduction into working with GIS mapping software that help further my experience in geology.

What are your degrees and certifications?

I am working on my Bachelor of Science in Geology- DePauw University 2025

What are your hobbies?

I love a variety of active hobbies, like swimming, rock climbing, and kayaking. I also enjoy more relaxed stuff like reading, playing video games, and baking.

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

The best advice I can give is the advice my mentor gave me: Make connections related to the things that interest you. Reaching out and talking to people with similar interests is a great way to experience different backgrounds that can help expand your learning, and can even provide new perspectives that lead you to finding new passions. It also helps you learn about opportunities you may not have heard of otherwise, which can go a long way in getting experience in the things you enjoy.