"For a position where I’m acting as the resident expert in my field, a specialized program that I could design to fit my career interests was crucial."
Ellie Glynn
Which program did you participate in and when?
I was part of the first cohort of the Accelerated/Non-Thesis Master’s in Cartography & GIS, but I initially started out in the traditional Capstone Certificate program. I graduated in May 2019 with my MSc.
Current job?
I am the cartographer for the Travelers’ Health Branch of the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. I work on the Clinical & Guidance team alongside very talented epidemiologists, health scientists, clinicians, and health communications specialists. My job is to make maps and graphics for the CDC’s Yellow Book, the Travel Health website, and various other travel health-related communications projects.
Could you tell us a little about your career and education path?
It was definitely non-linear, but it worked out perfectly for me in the end. I’ve always loved art and science, and I initially chose the science route for my undergraduate career as a molecular biology major. After realizing how much I disliked chemistry, I switched to a zoology major so I could keep all of my bio credits but not take any more o-chem. I took a few courses in geography, and decided to pick up a double major in it just for fun, since I could still graduate in 3.5 years. And then I took a GIS class, and I was hooked. I had no idea that this whole realm of spatial science really existed, and better yet, that cartography was a very viable career that could combine my passions for art and science. I knew I wanted to try to work with public health applications of mapping, so my job at the CDC is an absolute dream come true.
In what ways did your experience with GISPP prepare you for/ enhance your career?
A certificate or master’s degree lets you take a deeper dive into areas you might have only gotten a taste of in undergraduate studies or previous work experience. Most of the people who I work with at the CDC have at least a master’s degree in their specialty, and, especially for a position where I’m acting as the resident expert in my field, a specialized program that I could design to fit my career interests was crucial.
Favorite memory of GISPP?
The people! With the in-residence program, there are some great opportunities to get involved in various groups and labs on campus that do GIS and cartography work. I worked in the UW Cartography Lab (based in the geography department) and the Applied Population Lab (based in community & environmental sociology) during my time in GISPP, and I loved every minute of getting to work and becomes friends with such talented, like-minded people. Some of my favorite memories were chatting over lunch breaks and going over to the Terrace after work with these people.
What do you like to do for fun?
After the craziness of grad school was over, I immediately got a dog! So I love taking her on walks, kayaking, and to dog-friendly patios and shops. I also love to paint (digitally or with watercolors), draw, and embroider in my free time.
What advice would you give current students?
Get involved with something besides your coursework! Whether it’s getting an internship, going to conferences, joining a lab, or just making maps or GIS projects for fun to boost your portfolio or put on Twitter, it’s so important to apply your skills outside your classes. You’ll gain a ton of confidence in your technical abilities, learn new things, and meet other people in your field, which are all so helpful for getting a job after your program finishes!
Is there anything else you’d like to share with program staff or prospective students about your experience?
Maps are the best. Join GISPP!