April Sanders '26

April Sanders '26
- Hometown: Findlay, Ohio
- Class: 2026
- Major(s): Environmental Science (co-major), Geography and Sustainable Development, Geology
- Other Activities, Honors, and Awards:
- First Generation Student
- Prodesse Scholar
- Bridges Scholar
- Miami University Geological Society
- American Institute of Professional Geologists
- Unlearning Racism in Geoscience
- Undergraduate Summer Scholars
- Doctoral Undergraduate Opportunity Scholarship: An opportunity that funds an undergraduate and graduate student to work together on a research project
- On to the Future: A scholarship that sponsors high-achieving students across the nation to attend and present at the national Geological Society of America conference
Why Miami?
I chose Miami because of the opportunities available and the community. There are so many opportunities to learn and grow whether it is through clubs, research, or study abroad experiences. When I visited Miami for the first time, I realized there is a strong and welcoming community present that I wanted to be a part of.
How did you choose your major?
Going into college, I knew that I was going to study geology. I have always had a passion for science and loved how interdisciplinary geology is. As for my second major in geography, I discovered it along the way. I learned how important an understanding of geography is for geology and started taking geography classes. After learning more about the subject, I decided that a second major would be the best choice for me.
Key Moment at Miami
Taking my first geography class in my second year at Miami University with Dr. Shenyue Jia helped me learn just how much I enjoy learning about geography. I saw how much fun I was having in the class and realized my passion for the subject. That experience led to me adding a second major.
Other Notable Experience
Participating in undergraduate research and student organizations at Miami has been incredibly beneficial to my academic journey. I was able to attend professional conferences in North Carolina and California that helped me learn so much about my field. I am also vice president of the Miami University Geological Society. With this organization, I have been able to meet other people that enjoy geology, traveling, and being outdoors. Since I entered college in 2022, I have been to 10 different states to explore and learn. This expanded my perspectives and has positively impacted my life.
Another Miami Moment
One thing that I love about Miami is that it is so easy to give back to the people who helped you throughout your time here. I participated in the Bridges Program in high school, and every year I work with an incredible team as an ambassador for the program. I also work in the Center for Career Exploration and Success as a peer career coach. With both of these positions, I am able to help others succeed and attain their goals within their education. It is very rewarding, and I am so thankful to have these opportunities.
Advice to Prospective Students
I would tell them that they should not be afraid to try something new or participate in events. There are so many opportunities available through Miami and you would not regret attending. I met so many of my close friends by being active on campus and it has made my time at Miami even better.
What are your career goals?
After I graduate from Miami, I plan to attend graduate school. I aim to work for the United States Geological Survey upon completion of a masters degree. I would work on projects relating to minerals, landforms, and natural resources.