Today we feature senior Ross Billig, a Geography major with a minor in Community and Environmental Planning. Ross is from Williamstown, NJ (Gloucester County) and is a transfer from Rowan College at Burlington County.
How did you become interested in this major?
I have liked geography since I was in elementary school. I originally started at Rowan under a different major that did not feel quite right. I always joked that “I wish I could get a degree in everything,” and in many ways that actually describes geography. It incorporates everything from earth science to the study of cultures.
What made you go: “WOW, I’m in the right major for me”?
Over the summer semester, I was taking three courses and it hit me one day that I actually look forward to school and really enjoy the classes that I’m in. I even engaged in a deeper level of conversations with my professors, which has led to me joining the geography club furthering these relationships. Everything about it has been great, from the courses to the professors to the other students. I couldn’t recommend it more highly!
What excites you about your major?
As I mentioned, I love the versatility of this major. I like that it covers such a broad range of topics and there are plenty of minors and certificate programs, which can help a person to dive as deep as they want into topics that appeal to them.
How does this major support your professional goals?
I want to work with the environment, specifically in climate change, and this program allows me to be on the right track to get into grad school programs, which can further my progress toward my goals.
Is there anything you wish you knew beforehand about this major, or anything that is better than you expected, that you could share with others?
I would have made myself switch to geography sooner! I truly can’t say enough about the professors and support staff in this department. They are genuinely amazing people who really care about their students. The courses themselves are really interesting, but the faculty is what takes this program to another level.
Could you share one cool thing about your major? Or one cool thing you’ve learned?
I think that one of the coolest things about this major is how misunderstood it is. When you say that you’re a geography major, most people think you’re really good at naming states and their capitals. But in reality, this degree involves so many different aspects of our world, and I find that really engaging.
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Story by:
Stephanie Batista, sophomore Music Industry major