I have been really interested in collecting rocks and I love learning about them. I came up with the idea to ask some questions to women in STEM. I want to help girls discover STEM. I chose to interview a professional women geologist in my community.
An Interview With Geologist:
Lindsay Capitanich
When did you first gain an interest in geology and what was it that sparked your interest?
I've always loved rocks, ever since I was little. It wasn't until I took a lapidary course that my curiosity for geology piqued.
Lapidary is the process of cutting, grinding, sanding, and polishing stones and gems. I couldn't stop asking my teacher, "What is this rock? Where did it come from? How did it form those rings?" I think I exhausted him with all of my questions!!
What is your favorite rock and why?
Oh, this is a tough one! I have (at least) 3 favorites! Malachite, labradorite, and fluorite. They're all so beautiful!! Malachite is green and botryoidal, which creates beautiful, banded patterns. Labradorite looks three-dimensional and is beautifully iridescent. Fluorite is interesting because it's the only common mineral to have four directions of cleavage, so it takes an octahedron form. It also glows under UV light!
That's so awesome, my favorite rock is a Malachite too!
What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned as a geologist?
There are so many interesting aspects of geology! But I'd have to say the rock cycle....rocks (igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary) are constantly changing! Most rocks begin as one rock type, but end up being another. It's fascinating to think about! I wonder which rock came first?
Anything you’d like to share for fostering girls in STEM?
Always follow your heart and never stop learning! Keep asking questions and keep being curious!!
What is your favorite color?
Red, but green is a close second!
What do you like most about your job as a geologist?
As an environmental geologist, I loved working outside. I also loved the idea that I was helping the environment.
As a teacher, I love having the opportunity to work with kids all day! Sharing knowledge is one of my favorite things to do!
What is your favorite thing about being a geologist?
There are so many different, interesting areas of geology. Through geology, you can study volcanoes, earthquakes, environment, hydrology, paleontology, petrology, planetary geology....the list goes on! I love geology because it incorporates so many different sciences - you have to also know biology, chemistry, physics, and math to truly understand geology. Because geology is so diverse, I never stop learning new things and I love that!
Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?
I graduated from Sonoma State University with a Bachelor of Science in Geology. I worked for 10 years as a geologist doing environmental consulting - mainly remediation of soil and groundwater. I decided to pursue my dream of teaching, so I became a substitute teacher - I want to teach science. I am now earning my teaching credential and Masters of Education while substitute teaching. I'm a single mom of two very active boys. I love hiking, camping, reading, photography, learning, and playing with my kids.
Geology Activities for Kids
Geology activities and experiments you can do at home with what you have
Soil Experiment #1
Some basic things to do in your backyard can be to figure out what type of soil you have in your yard. All you need is a clear container (can be a plastic water bottle), water, and soil. Put the soil and the water in the bottle and shake. Place the bottle on a surface and leave it undisturbed. You can watch the particles settle (the first to settle to the bottom are the sands, then the silt, then the clay). The longer the water stays brown, the more clay you have in your soil (clay doesn't settle as quickly, so it keeps the water brown).
Soil Experiment #2
You can also look around your yard after a good rain. Are there any puddles? Why are there puddles in one area but not the other? Does the soil around your house dry out quickly? Why?
Next step geology activities and experiments
Rock polishing can be a fun and exciting activity for kids. You can get a rock polisher that comes with a starter pack of rocks and grit. Depending on your enthusiasm you can get bigger and quieter rock polishers or you can get a smaller one that is a little louder but less expensive.
Thank you to Lindsay Capitanich!
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