Student Travel Grants

Application deadline: 16 April 2026

The Rocky Mountain Section is pleased to offer travel support to help students attend the meeting. These grants provide valuable opportunities to present research, connect with peers and professionals, and gain meaningful experience. Be sure to review the eligibility requirements for the Rocky Mountain Section.

Student Volunteers

Earn free registration and gain an insider’s view of the meeting by volunteering for eight hours. Student volunteer roles are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Volunteering is a professional commitment, so please be sure you’re ready to fulfill the required hours before signing up. Your fellow attendees and the GSA community are counting on you!

To participate as a student volunteer, you must be a GSA Student Member in good standing.

• Check your membership status
• Join GSA

How to Sign Up

1. Click “Volunteer” and log in to your GSA account. Only current GSA Student Members will have access to the student volunteer sign-up page.
2. Once you are logged in, click “Sign Up Today” to commit to being a student volunteer.
3. After signing up, you’ll receive an email with your complimentary registration code.
4. Complete your meeting registration and enter the code at checkout to register free of charge.
5. Closer to the meeting, you will receive a follow-up email with the sign-up link to select and confirm your eight-hour shift commitments.

Volunteer as a Student Driver for Complimentary Field Trip and Meeting Registration

Students aged 25+ with a valid driver's license can volunteer as field trip drivers to receive complimentary registration for both the trip and the meeting. Email Rebecca Taormina, fieldtrip@geosociety.org, for more information.

Career & Networking Opportunities

Build your professional skills and connect with the geoscience community through career-focused programs for students and early career professionals. These opportunities provide guidance on choosing your next academic or professional steps, exploring career pathways, and preparing strong application materials. You’ll also have the chance to meet experienced geoscience professionals through mentoring and networking events designed to support your career development.

Sun., 17 May 2026

Rocky Mountain Section Meeting Opening Reception
5-7 p.m.
Kick off the meeting by connecting with fellow attendees at our Opening Reception, a relaxed icebreaker event designed to help you meet new colleagues, catch up with friends, and start the meeting on a fun, welcoming note.

Mon., 18 May 2026

Career Planning and Networking Session
10-11 a.m.
Your job search should begin long before you submit applications. In this workshop, you will explore the foundations of career planning, identify your strengths and interests, and learn how to map out potential career paths. You will also practice practical networking strategies that help you build meaningful professional connections and prepare for future opportunities. Starting this process early will set you up for long-term success.

Roy J. Shlemon Mentor Lunch in Applied Geoscience
Noon-1:30 p.m.
Ask your career-related questions and learn about non-academic pathways in applied geosciences while connecting with industry professionals at this luncheon designed for students. Register for this ticketed event when you register for the meeting, as space is limited. $5 for student members; $10 for student non-members.

Geoscience Career Exploration Panel
3-4 p.m.
Curious about the many paths a geoscience career can take? Join us to explore what geologists do across academia, government, and industry. Presenters will share insights into a variety of career paths, offering a broad look at what it’s like to work in different professional settings.

Rocky Mountain Section Night at the Museum
Sponsored by New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
6-8 p.m.
Join us for the Rocky Mountain Section Night at the Museum at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science! With exclusive after-hours access to the full museum, this special event invites you to explore exhibits in a truly unique setting. Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine catered by Monroe’s, a cash bar, and plenty of time to connect with colleagues. Register for this ticketed event when you register for the meeting. $25 for Students; $30 for Early Career Professionals; $35 for Professionals.

Tue., 19 May 2026

Cover Letters, Résumés and CVs Workshop
10-11 a.m.
Learn how to craft effective application materials that help you stand out. This workshop covers best practices for writing cover letters, résumés, and CVs, whether you're actively job searching or preparing for future opportunities. You’ll review real examples to understand common mistakes and learn how to create polished, professional documents that showcase your strengths.

John Mann Mentor Luncheon in Applied Hydrogeology Program
Noon-1:30 p.m.
Ask your career-related questions and learn about non-academic pathways in applied hydrogeology while connecting with industry professionals at this luncheon designed for students. Register for this ticketed event when you register for the meeting, as space is limited. $5 for student members; $10 for student non-members.

Geology Club Meetup
3-4 p.m.
If you are part of a geology club or interested in starting one on your campus, join us to connect with other club representatives and share ideas, activities, goals, and accomplishments.

Faulty Science Movie Night 
Sponsored by Geobrugg
8-10:30 p.m.
"Faulty Science Movie Night" is a relaxed evening social event featuring a well-known film with famously questionable geology. This ticketed event is designed to build community and unwind after a full day of sessions, with snacks provided. The movie will begin at 8:30 p.m., and registered attendees will have the opportunity to vote on the movie selection in advance—pajamas are welcome! Register for this ticketed event when you register for the meeting. $5 for members; $10 for non-members. Please note that any registration fees are associated solely with food and beverage costs.

Questions? Contact Morgan Rippe at gsastudents@geosociety.org