Meet Ben Moose, Spring Intern for Gasp
Where do you go to high school?
I go to high school at JCIB (Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School).
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
I hope to pursue a career in atmospheric sciences, specifically meteorology. I am also interested in learning more about the atmosphere through environmental science.
What is your dream job?
My dream job would be to work in a position with the National Weather Service in order to forecast and communicate important warnings and predictions about the weather and environment.
What do you hope to learn while interning with Gasp?
I hope to gain experience with possibly analyzing and interpreting data, to gain better communication skills, and to learn about the air quality issues in Birmingham and the efforts to reduce pollution in the area.
Why is our mission to reduce air pollution important to you?
I believe that all people, regardless of wealth, should have access to clean air. I understand the issues with air quality in the city and region and I believe that reducing air pollution and encouraging initiatives for clean air is important to the well-being of many in the city.
What is your favorite food?
My favorite foods include hamburgers (especially Shake Shack burgers) and many types of seafood (oysters, crab cakes, etc.).
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy tracking the weather and looking at various weather models and atmospheric data to compare my predictions to those of meteorologists. Additionally, I am interested in data analysis and the creation of data visualizations, as well as researching and learning about various scientific topics (through Science Olympiad).
Who or what are your influences?
Some important influences, in terms of my career plans, are the weather events (such as the 2011 tornado outbreak) and meteorologists that led to my interest in atmospheric science. Academically, I have had many teachers that have influenced my interests and personality through providing me with outside opportunities and teaching information in a dynamic and interesting way.
What are some other fun facts about yourself?
I participate in cross-country, and I enjoy running, especially long-distance running. I run 5K and 10K races and participate in cross-country meets. Additionally, I enjoy mathematics and science, especially the subjects of calculus, statistics, and physics, and their applications to real-world issues and problems.