Weather has always been a part of James Mineau’s life. Growing up on his family’s farm in Park Falls, Wisconsin, he became attuned to nature’s changes both big and small. But now as an Atmospheric and Ocean Sciences major and a student researcher, he’s learning about the vast opportunities that come from studying weather.
How did you choose your major?
I have always been intrigued by the weather. Living on a small family farm, the weather was always very important to me. My dad and I have done multiple SkyWarn trainings and we have been collecting precipitation data for more than 10 years. After taking AOS 101 in the fall of my freshman year and really bonding with my TA, I knew AOS was for me.
What do you like most about your major?
I like the implications that it has in everyone’s everyday life. It is also an ever-progressing field. And the research really draws me to the science.
What’s been a favorite class?
My favorite class has been the AOS 404: Meteorological Measurements class led by, coincidentally, my favorite professor, Ankur Desai. Over the past summer, during an intensive observation period of CHEESEHEAD [the Chequamegon Heterogeneous Ecosystem Energy-balance Study Enabled by a High-density Extensive Array of Detectors, a field campaign in Price County, Wisconsin, that seeks to gather comprehensive data on the interactions of ecosystems and vegetation with climate and weather], which I was working as an undergrad intern under Professor Desai, a class of six designed and conducted our own research project and presented to the department. It taught us the methods behind research and how to deal with different situations that arise.
What was a class that changed the way you thought about something?
In the meteorological measurements class, my perception of the work and adaptability that goes into research has drastically changed. It’s incredible the amount of preparation and time that goes into these projects.
How have you grown or changed since starting college?
Since starting college, I believe I have become a more open person who is even more open to taking opportunities than I was before. Obviously, I have become more independent, but I think with that independence comes a greater amount of responsibility, which I have fully embraced. I am ready for anything.
What’s been a significant out-of-the-classroom experience?
My internship with CHEESEHEAD has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I am fully immersed in my field, before I have even begun the core classes. I have connections and people who support me. I have learned an incredible amount through active participation and gained invaluable experiences not found in the classroom. I am now continuing with CHEESEHEAD past my summer internship through workstudy, where I continue to work under Professor Desai, hopefully working toward my own individual research questions and publication in the future.
What are your post-college plans?
As of now, I plan to continue my education past my bachelor’s. It is almost essential in the field, but I have a new look on research. I hope to be involved in research at some level, more so physically hopefully.
What is the best memory you have from your time at UW?
My greatest times at UW are those where I am surrounded by those who love and care about me. To me, the connections made are invaluable. Without the people, school would be very unfulfilling.
What advice would you give other students?
Embrace every opportunity as it comes.