Brooke Taylor’s path at Oregon State University has been defined by exploration – of landscapes, ideas and her own evolving interests. As an honors student with a double degree in geography and geospatial science and music, along with a GIS certificate, she has packed a lot into four years.
“Geography as a field of study is about connections and about how different places interact over time and with people and in all kinds of ways,” Brooke reflected. It has been the perfect fit: a major grounded in science yet expansive enough to combine the relationships between humans and their environments.
Hands-on learning became a defining element of Brooke’s experience in CEOAS, because, as she said, you can “see the world while learning about it.” Field courses, including GEOG 495, a weeklong field study across Oregon, immersed her in the practice of geography, from observing landscapes to collecting data and collaborating closely with peers. Snow hydrology meant a snowshoeing trip into the Cascades to practice snow measurement methods; GEOG 451 highlighted the land use and planning systems in coastal communities to prepare for tsunamis.
“I felt really bonded with the people who I got to take these smaller geography classes with during that time, and I made some friends who have been with me throughout the rest of my college experience.”
These experiences not only strengthened her academic knowledge but also built the tight-knit community that has encouraged her academic journey.
Outside the classroom, music served as an important creative balance to her science coursework. A dedicated French horn player, she has been deeply involved in OSU’s band programs, performing in the OSU Wind Symphony, as well as OSU Campus Band, Marching Band (on mellophone), Rhythm and Beavs pep band, and String Ensemble.
“Marching band has given me opportunities to travel around the country that I never would have expected… I really enjoyed the Sun Bowl in El Paso, because I had never seen a stadium tucked into mountains like that before.”
Brooke has also extended her impact as an Oregon State orientation leader, guiding campus tours and helping new students and their families to navigate the transition into college life with confidence.
Now, as she prepares for her own transition, she reflects on the opportunities she has embraced to lead, learn and represent her OSU communities. Her openness to growth and discovery is clear: “I’ve learned about so many different topics and I’ve found so many new interests in my time here at OSU that I’m really excited” to continue to explore, learn and ask questions, she said.
While she plans to pursue a career in geography or geospatial science, she remains excited about the range of directions her education has opened up. With a strong foundation in technical, spatial and communication skills, Brooke leaves Oregon State prepared for whatever comes next.