Kyle Hurley

Job: Flight Coordinator, Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E) at Scripps Institution of Oceanography

Describe the impact that student employment has had on your overall college experience.

The education I am currently receiving provides the groundwork necessary for me to succeed in any field related to oceanic and atmospheric sciences. The experiences I've obtained from CW3E at Scripps are helping to bridge the gap between how we used to study weather versus how we are going to study weather. UC San Diego has taught me that it's okay to fail, but learning from failure is more important than allowing it to define us. With the ability to accept failure and maintain a highly enthusiastic outlook on life, my contributions to science, specifically in oceanic and atmospheric sciences, are unlimited. UC San Diego/CW3E has also taught me the importance of flexibility and adaptability. First, is flexibility because although we may have a concrete plan, error and uncertainty will always find their way into our plans, careers, and futures. Secondly, adaptability because facing challenges and constraints within a very short period of time requires fast and instinct-induced decision-making. These decisions are what define us as people, students, and leaders. Student Employment truly enhanced my skills in my desired field, as well as developed a deeper appreciation for the future work I want to get into.

What skills and/or competencies have you developed in your student employment job that you were able to capture on your resume?

Communication skills both inside and outside of my job. 

What tips or advice do you have to share with other students on how to get the most out of their student employment experience?

Chase your dreams even if they seem impossible. The only thing standing in between a person and their dreams is their determination and ability to keep moving forward even when facing adversity. The most important resource that has helped me prepare for my career is the help and guidance from my friends, family, and mentors. Their encouragement and educational direction suggestions have solidified my interest in the specific field of oceanic and atmospheric sciences. Other students and peers I've met on my journey at UC San Diego have also contributed to my preparation for a career. Networking opportunities, such as workshops and lab tours, are important resources that have helped students like me prepare for the careers we start tomorrow.  

How might you apply your student employment experience and the skills gained during your time at UC San Diego to your professional career?

Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego has a strong foothold in oceanic and atmospheric sciences, constantly making historical strides within such a growing community. Many of my major and minor classes have helped showcase how our community will evolve with climate change and how we as a society need to change too. My work at CW3E has taught me what to look for when analyzing meteorological data and how to create a better understanding of the dynamics that lead to certain aspects of weather. Overall, UC San Diego and CW3E have given me the tools and skills needed to do well in the field of meteorology.