Sandy Castellano, M.S. Email & Phone Number

I am currently a second-year graduate student at Montclair State University. I will be graduating with a Master's in Sustainability Science in January 2023. My academic journey in geosciences began with a passion to study geology. As an undergraduate at Syracuse University, I was interested in how coastal environments and communities are impacted by natural disasters. I participated in a study abroad experience in Christchurch, New Zealand which is where I completed a natural hazard risk management plan as a final project for my Disaster Risk and Resilience course. This project enabled me to participate in a local town meeting in Franz Josef with key stakeholders as they discussed what is at stake as the town lies on a strike-slip fault and is projected to cause a powerful earthquake in the near future. Being involved in this real-world scenario, provided insight that communities deserve to be informed and involved in decisions affecting their towns. My focus on coastal hazards stemmed from wanting to learn what communities are most at risk and what mitigation strategies can be implemented to aid in resiliency efforts in coastal areas. As a graduate student, I pursued a geochemistry internship with the NSF this past summer to analyze water parameter changes in the Wouri Estuary located in Douala, Cameroon. Through this internship, I developed strong teamwork skills and fostered data analysis skills. I worked collaboratively with other students on my team and developed meaningful relationships. This experience inspired me to continue my education and pursue a Ph.D. program in hydrogeology.