Get started in GIS
There’s no since way to do it! But following at least some of the steps below will get you on your way
Step 1: Pursue the ‘GIS and Spatial Analysis’ Concentration
- ES312: Environmental Applications of GIS (alternate years, in fall)
- ES 363: Remote Sensing (alternate years, in fall)
- A statistics course (BIO 260 is recommended but any stats course will do)
Step 2: Learn a little coding
- Take Computer Science 111 or equivalent.
- Teach yourself a little Python, then do a project with it. Python is a general purpose programming language. It allows you to create tools and automate tasks in ArcGIS and other programs.
Step 3: Do a research project to hone your GIS skills
- It could be as small as a class project or as big as a year-long honors thesis.
- REU Summer Programs are a great option. Search for the word “GIS”.
Step 4: Get a job or internship where you can hone your GIS skills
- The ES Opportunities blog and Center for Career Development are good places to start.
- Several students have done internships at Adams County GIS.
- The Gettysburg USGIF Externship. Takes place 1 week each summer and exposes students to a range of GIS-related organizations in the DC area, especially in the national security sector. Ask the career center for more info.
- Peer Learning Associate (PLA) for ES230 Intro to GIS.
Step 5: Cultivate soft skills
- Prized characteristics include leadership, humility, collaboration, adaptability and loving to learn.
- Read ‘How to Get a Job at Google’
Note: GIS graduate programs and GIS certificate programs are not always worth your time and money! With careful planning and course selection you should be able to get comparable experience as an undergrad.