Beverly Bolster, Geospatial Data Science '25

Student Q&A: Beverly Bolster, Geospatial Data Science '25

Beverly Bolster is a geography major with a concentration in geospation data science and also pursuing a double degree with sociology. Originally from Catonsville, Maryland, Beverly didn't know she wanted to be geographical scientist until she was exposed to classes at GEOG.

Below, Beverly shares her experiences and aspirations, highlighting the pragmatic and dynamic aspects of geography and its potential to address real-world challenges.

What inspired your interest in geography?

I was initially interested in pursuing a degree in environmental science, but as I took those classes at UMD, my professors heavily encouraged us to take classes in geographic information systems (GIS) as well to develop skills applicable to environmental fields. Ultimately, I liked these classes better, as they enabled me to utilize math and technical computer skills, and–having enjoyed human geography in high school and also planning to major in sociology—I felt that geography would enable me to connect my varying interests.

How have your interests evolved during your studies at our department?

The most significant change in my geographical focus has been my increasing interest in applying remote sensing in future studies and work. At first, I expected that I would be more interested in GIS because I thought this could connect environmental and social issues in a way that remote sensing could not. However, after taking classes in remote sensing as well, I have realized that my initial judgment was incorrect. I am currently planning to take more of my upper-level geography courses in remote sensing and would love to use remote sensing in the future to tackle city issues and problems such as food insecurity.

Can you share an example of an experience that had an impact on your understanding of geography?

This summer, I worked as a Russell Brinsfield intern on a variety of projects related to geography, particularly at the intersection of agriculture and the environment. My favorite projects involved researching where urban agriculture is allowed in Maryland and researching the potential for agrivoltaics, which involves placing solar panels on farmland to generate solar power while maintaining agricultural production on this same land. I am particularly interested in how we can most sustainably use our land to meet our current needs while ensuring that future generations will be able to meet their needs as well. Thus, these projects enabled me to understand how our decisions impact the geography of our surroundings and how we can make the most sustainable choices to produce food and generate clean, renewable energy. I would love to continue to advance my knowledge in these areas and to apply more technical mapping and geography skills on similar projects in the future.

Geography encompasses diverse subfields. What area are you drawn to the most?

I am most interested in the intersection between human and physical geography, particularly how issues with our natural environment impact humans differently based on varying social factors. For example, who is most plagued by food insecurity or lack of natural resources, or who is most impacted by climate change and natural disasters? Particularly, I am passionate about understanding how we can begin to rectify these inequalities to create a more just society.

What would be your dream job when you graduate?

Currently, my dream job would be to work in the remote sensing department at NASA—promoting food security through maintaining healthy farmland, assessing land use change due to climate change, or analyzing the relationship between cities and climate change—or to work for FEMA or another emergency relief agency—utilizing my technical geography skills to aid relief efforts.

Image courtesy of Beverly Bolster