2007-2008 Congressional Science Fellow

摘要

While the 2008 elections created tremendous anticipation on Capitol Hill this fall, my excitement was tempered by the realization that my tenure as the 2007-2008 Geological Society of America-U.S. Geological Survey Congressional Science Fellow was rapidly coming to an end. I am deeply indebted to GSA arid the USGS for giving me the opportunity to work with a phenomenal host office (Senator Bill Nelson of Florida) and experience first-hand the application of science in our legislative process. This has truly been a life- and career-changing experience. So, what's next? This deceptively easy question (which usually strikes fear in the hearts of outgoing Congressional Science Fellows) typically lacks an easy answer. After spending a year gaining insights into the formulation and implementation of science policy, what's the next logical step? What does one do with this type of experience?