Outstanding Seniors in the College of Science: Brandon Nepsa

This spring, the College of Science recognized 12 outstanding seniors for their contributions in and out of the classroom. Brandon Nepsa is this semester's recipient from Hydrology & Atmospheric Sciences!

The College of Science caught up with Brandon to learn more about his experiences at the University of Arizona and what is on the horizon after graduation.

Why did you choose to study in your specific department/major?

I chose to study Atmospheric Sciences because of the interest I have had in the subject since being a child. Being from Arizona, my only taste at real weather was Monsoons, and every single year I loved the amazing things they would bring. I frequently would watch the lightning, the strange cloud colors, and the other things severe storms would bring to the desert. I also have my fair share of close weather-related incidents, but that's for another time.

Tell me about a class or research project you really enjoyed.

I really enjoyed a research project that I did in my Atmospheric Dynamics II course on the 2021 Texas Freeze event. This project really allowed me to showcase my technical ability while also trying to break down an event that can be shared with ease. Up until that presentation, most of my classes were prerequisites, so I really enjoyed being able to build a case study on such an event.

What is one specific memory from your time at UA that you'll cherish forever?

My specific memory that I will cherish forever actually occurred at orientation before my Freshman year began. It was pouring rain and my friends, and I walked from the PAS building to Noodies on Speedway in the rain. Since I was going straight into college from high school, it was one of those moments that really made me realize I was in college and was beginning the next chapter of my life.

What are you most proud of having accomplished in your time at UA?

I think I'm most proud of just the connections I've built and the discovery about myself at my time at the University. I discovered that I love computer programming even though in high school I figured I would have never enjoyed such a thing. I participated in establishing an esports community between western US schools that wasn't present before. These accomplishments are only a small few in the large list I would say I am equally proud of, but they all contributed to me finding out who I am and what I like to do.

What is next for you after graduation?

I'm not quite certain what is next for me after graduation. The job market in my career field is very volatile and opportunities come and go. I plan to pick up a full-time job though; however, I am not certain when that will be. I have also given some thought about using this job to pivot my experience towards other directions and trying new things. Overall, though, full-time employment is the target.