In an ongoing series, we are taking a look back at some of our graduates of the EAS Undergraduate Program to gain some insight into their experiences at the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences.

We are featuring Melissa LeFevre who graduated in 2013 from EAS:

EAS Alumnus - Melissa LeFevre

As the 2014 school year is fast approaching, I sit reminiscing over my four short years at Georgia Tech in the Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Program with the fondest of memories.

Especially how the department professors and the rigorous classes helped prepare me for my current position as a meteorologist on the FO46 Weather Team in Charlotte.

Georgia Tech is not an easy place, and I am proud to say I "got out" and am now an alumna. But the real world brings challenges that everyday classes do not prepare you for. Scenarios and situations that require more than equations and statistics.

That is where the Earth and Atmospheric Sciences department as a whole, the classes, the professors and the activities within the school, prepare their students for all aspects of the real world.

I can say with confidence that I would not be where I am today if it had not been for the network at Georgia Tech.

First, there is the exceptional faculty and staff. A school has to have the right people in place to teach and lead the department. My professors were there for my classmates and I not only in the classroom, but during office hours and even more if necessary. They are great teachers in their respected fields and wonderful mentors in the real world.

They were always happy to answer questions ranging from how to finish homework problem #5, explaining Quasi-Geostrophic Theory, or even, where do I go from here?

I have never met another department that rivals the professional and personal level that the professors of EAS have. It makes going to class all the more easier and fun.

My academic advisors as well as the staff within the office are the friendliest and most helpful that you will meet and they made my years at Tech most enjoyable.

Next comes the material you learn. The nuts and bolts. Daily, I am deciphering numerical data and detailed information then translating it to the public. You have to know what you are talking about and that's where your coursework comes in.

The classes I took within the Earth and Atmospheric Sciences department were vigorous and demanding. The coursework is not for the faint of heart-but once you become proficient in your studies, you are prepared to take on any career within your field.

The variety of classes offered gave me an edge on others as I was well-versed in a variety of subjects ranging from meteorology, to atmospheric chemistry, climatology and a plethora of other coursework.

I have found that the combination of the core and elective classes help me in the studio everyday. As meteorologists we are asked questions daily about not only the weather but climate, the atmosphere and everything in between. I can answer their questions with confidence and know that it is because of the education I have received.

The classes are structured for not only learning necessary information, but with group as well as individual projects and presentations, you have to learn the material and then present it to others. In my career, that skill is a necessity.

Overall, the entire Earth and Atmospheric Sciences program, from the faculty to the subject matter, stands above the rest. The School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences is an amazing place and one that I am honored to be a part of.