Geosciences Student Gains Ground Through Hands-On Learning

From PFAS research and mineral analysis to teaching and community outreach, Jerusha Hampson is applying her geosciences education to real-world environmental challenges.

Jerusha Hampson is a senior studying geosciences with a concentration in professional geology. Through applied learning experiences in the field and lab, she connects classroom theory to real-world environmental investigation and mineral analysis.

Hampson has over two years of research experience working with EWU Professor Chad Pritchard on the West Plains PFAS Fate and Transport Study, conducting water sampling and investigating PFAS contamination across Spokane County’s West Plains. Additionally, she served as a research assistant for the EWU–U.S. Geological Survey cooperative on campus, where she processed rock samples for U.S. Geological Survey scientists and extracted minerals for analysis.

“As a geoscience student, applied learning has given me opportunities to practice field methods and lab techniques that you can’t get from lectures alone,” Hampson says.

She also worked as a teaching assistant in the EWU Geosciences program for two years, supporting students weekly in Geoscience 100 (Intro to Geology) labs and helping them develop practical skills.

Outside of her academic and research work, Hampson serves as president of the Geosciences Club, organizing events, field trips, and STEM outreach at local schools to promote geosciences education and community engagement.

Her applied learning will continue this summer during Field Camp, an immersive learning experience. Working alongside Washington State Parks, Hampson and her classmates will conduct geochemical research, contribute to public geology projects, and assist with mapping and research efforts at Gardner Cave. They will also partner with geotechnical and mining companies to analyze drill core samples and participate in a PFAS sampling project along the Spokane River.

Through her fieldwork, research, teaching, and leadership positions, Hampson has honed her skills in environmental sampling, mineral preparation, data analysis, and science communication.

As she prepares for a career in geology, Hampson hopes to combine her technical expertise with meaningful work that addresses environmental challenges and benefits communities.