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Caroline Locker, the Fall 2024 Graduation Marshal for the College of Sciences and Mathematics, is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in her academic journey. With a passion for the earth sciences, she plans to further her education at Auburn University by pursuing a master's degree in Geology focused on high temperature geochemistry. This next step reflects her dedication to advancing her knowledge and contributing to the field.

Locker, originally from Hoover, Alabama, graduated from Hoover High School and initially entered the College of Engineering at Auburn University. She found herself drawn to earth science soon into her academic career.

“I originally planned to complete an undergraduate degree in geology and then continue to graduate school for meteorology,” Locker says, “but I ended up falling in love with geology as its own discipline and realized that I had already found where I belonged.”

One element that drew her to study in the Department of Geosciences was the number of faculty members she could work with who focus on research relating to climate and atmospheric studies.

The Department of Geosciences also offered Locker the ability to learn in smaller class sizes that have given her a more hands on and tailored education.

“The smaller class sizes promote active participation and create an engaging dynamic…” She continues, “Hands on learning is so accessible and encouraged in this program, and I’ve been able to fully immerse myself and foster meaningful connections with every one of my classmates, professors, and mentors.”

Locker has also been participating in areas outside of the classroom as well as she has interned on the Geology Team at Yellowstone National Park, was a four-year member of the Auburn University Marching Band and has served as President of the Auburn GeoClub.

Ms. Locker reflected on her time as an Auburn undergraduate student and explained that she will be taking not only academic lessons with her moving forward, but also lessons applying to other areas in her life.

She explains, “As a highly performance-oriented student, I initially struggled to create space in my schedule to accommodate my own needs during these difficult times. It became clear very quickly, though, that that was not a sustainable way to live or thrive.” Locker found herself resonating with the Auburn Creed in that prioritizing a sound body and mind has allowed her to thrive in all areas of her educational, professional, and personal life.

As Locker moves forward with her education at Auburn University, her influence by her father’s work has inspired her goals in making an impact in the geosciences field.

“My dad, a civil engineer in wastewater management, made sure to emphasize to me that unseen contributions are just as valuable and necessary as those that are seen by the public eye… I ultimately want to be a part of these contributions.”

Moving forward, Ms. Locker will embark on her academic journey carrying with her the knowledge, skills, and values cultivated during her time at Auburn University. Her dedication to her field and commitment to making a positive impact promise a bright future in the geosciences industry.