Transfer Student Spotlight: Shelby Gilson

In celebration of National Transfer Student Week (October 21-25, 2024), we caught up with ACC alumna Shelby Gilson. Shelby earned her Associate of Science degree at ACC in 2023 before transferring to Colorado School of Mines.

Shelby’s Studies at ACC

I enrolled at ACC in January 2020 and earned my associate degree (Geology Transfer Major) before transferring into Colorado School of Mines in the fall of 2023. I graduated cum laude from ACC and earned distinguished academic honors 6 times (Dean’s List once, President’s List 5 times).

More about Shelby...

I grew up in Saratoga Springs, Utah, and I am a GED recipient. My hobbies include hiking, camping, visiting national parks, and appreciating art. I love cats and have two feline friends of my own, Princess and Lauren. I had the opportunity to walk in the 2023 Denver Pride Parade with ACC’s LGBTQ+ club. I’m incredibly proud of my journey and I’m grateful to ACC for the opportunity to pursue an education, which ultimately led me to Mines.

Tell us about your incredible research experiences

My first research experience was at ACC during the 2023 spring semester. The second was in Zambia through Colorado School of Mines from May - July 2024. My third one – also through Mines – was in Utah from July - August 2024.

Describe your ACC research experience

My first research experience was the inaugural launch of ACC’s Geology research program. I had the opportunity to work with my geology professor, Mark Leatherman, on “The Role of Trace Elements in Tourmaline's Gemstone Colors” project. Our goal was to identify chromophores - trace elements responsible for a mineral’s color - in different colored tourmaline specimens. Our project involved the dissolution of tourmaline specimens using hydrochloric acid and analysis with UV-visible light spectroscopy. I presented our findings at ACC’s research symposium.

Colorado School of Mines research experience #1

My second research experience involved a 5-week study on heavy metal pollution and phytoremediation in Zambia, collaborating with professors and students from Colorado School of Mines, Georgia College and State University, and the University of Zambia. I had the opportunity to attend mining workshops at the University of Zambia and explore the environmental impact of mining, including visits to an underground mine, concentrator plant, and surrounding areas. We also engaged with local communities, performed research and fieldwork, and attended the 2024 Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition.

Colorado School of Mines research experience #2

My third research experience involved assisting a Mines Geology Ph.D. student with sedimentary research in Nine Mile Canyon, Utah. I helped with drone imagery, identifying sedimentary structures, and hydrological analysis using ArcGIS Pro.

Transferring into Colorado School of Mines

My goal was to study engineering, and when I found my passion for geology, it was clear that Mines was the best school to pursue Geological Engineering. I am majoring in Geological Engineering, with minors in Mining and Humanitarian Engineering. I plan to graduate with my bachelor’s degree in May 2026.

I’m very involved in the transfer student community at Mines, holding a leadership position in the Transfer Student Association. My role as Outreach Director of the Transfer Student Association has given me the opportunity to develop organizational and leadership skills by leading community building initiatives.

I also work as a Transfer Peer Mentor (within the Multicultural Engineering Program) at Mines. This role has given me the opportunity to develop collaboration and mentorship skills by supporting transfer students.

You were self-employed while you studied at ACC. Can you speak to your experience as a business owner?

I have been a self-employed esthetician for over 6 years, which has given me the flexibility and freedom to pursue an education. I ran a full-time business, Mile High Glamour, while I took classes at ACC. I have slowly transitioned away from running a full-time business to working part-time and focusing on my studies at Mines. My experience as a business owner has given me the opportunity to develop listening, empathy, time management, and self-discipline skills.

What’s your career goal? Is graduate school in your future?

I want to work at a mine as a Geological or Mining Engineer. I’m undecided about graduate school because I’m excited to work in the industry. However, I’m open to future opportunities and I’m interested in furthering my education in Geological, Mining, and Humanitarian engineering.

How do you hope to make a difference in people’s lives with your career?

My experience in Zambia sparked my passion for mining and led me to pursue a minor in Mining Engineering. I also value engaging with communities affected by mining, which is why I chose to minor in Humanitarian Engineering. I’m committed to applying Humanitarian Engineering principles and promoting responsible mining practices. I intend to bring value to the mining industry through my interdisciplinary combination of Geological, Humanitarian, and Mining Engineering.