Originally hailing from the flat, glacially sculpted landscapes of Illinois,

Amanda's passion for geology was ignited early on by her father's mineral collection and the earth science classes she enjoyed at school. This budding interest evolved into a deeper commitment during her undergraduate studies, where she was selected to participate in an 8-week Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) at the Carnegie Institution for Science's Geophysical Laboratory. It was there that she got her first taste of a research career, sparking a journey that has been driving her forward ever since.