Today Is National Weatherperson's Day
- Why did you decide to pursue a career in Meteorology?
I have always been fascinated by the weather, ever since I was a little girl. I used to watch thunderstorms roll in from my west-facing front porch in the summertime with my dad, and thrilled at the prospect of snowstorms. I have also always been drawn to the world of television and I love communicating the weather in a way that people can understand.
- What is your favorite part about your job?
My job is the absolute best of both worlds. The world of TV is so much fun - meeting people in the community, attending fun events, being the face of a station I watched growing up... but at the same time, I'm passionate about science and my job allows me to actually study and communicate science each and every day. I get to use both sides of my brains daily! And I'm a huge proponent of more girls getting into STEAM-type jobs, so I love that I can hopefully be a role model for other little weather geeks out there.
- What is your favorite season?
Lately, my favorite season is spring. I love tracking snowstorms and love summer heat, but there's something so invigorating about seeing green start to re-emerge in the world after a long winter. That first 65 degree day after months of cold? That's where it's at. Plus I love a good thunderstorm and late spring can be a good time for that.
- Why did you decide to pursue a career in Meteorology?
My broadcasting career began locally. I was a Reporter/Producer for a newsmagazine show at PBS 39 in Bethlehem. However, I eventually turned my focus to weather when I took an on-air job at AccuWeather, Inc. That's where my passion for forecasting really blossomed. I went back to school to obtain my meteorology degree, and had the good fortune to train with some of the most well-respected mets in the field.
- What is your favorite part about your job?
Strange as it may sound, nothing beats the dark and early hours before the morning show when I get the chance to sit in my sweatpants with a cup of coffee, an iTunes playlist on shuffle, and just analyze the weather. Just as high on the list of faves is the fact that I get to work with people I consider dear friends every day. That makes hitting the alarm clock at 1:30am so much easier!
- What is your favorite season?
When it comes to forecasting Delaware Valley weather, there's never a dull moment no matter the season! We can truly see anything - from huge snow storms to major hurricanes, dangerous severe weather to the most picturesque sunny day... I love tracking it all, so I base my favorite season on more personal criteria. For me, it's a toss up between summer and fall. I live for beach weekends, pro soccer games, & relaxing on the deck in the summertime. But I absolutely LOVE the staples of fall - crisp air, tailgating, and the return of pumpkin spice EVERYTHING and boot season!
- Why did you decide to pursue a career in Meteorology?
Growing up in Allentown, PA I experienced many snowstorms and that's what got me interested in meteorology. I started paying attention to the weather in elementary school, and thought being able to forecast snowstorms would be a cool job. My interest in weather continued so I figured meteorology would be a career that I would enjoy. So I decided to attend Millersville University in Pennsylvania and received a B.S. in Meteorology. At first, I just wanted to be a forecaster but after doing an internship at a local television station, I decided to pursue broadcast meteorology.
- What is your favorite part about your job?
My favorite part of my job is just being able to do something that I really like. When it comes to my forecasts and reports, I keep it real with no hype. The worst part of my job would have to be the crazy hours and schedules you have to work sometimes.
- What is your favorite season?
My favorite season is Summer. For me, it's all about sunshine, warm temperatures and being outside, especially on the beach.
Even though I love Summer, the most interesting type of storm for me to forecast and report on is a Nor'easter. It's amazing how everything has to come together perfectly in the atmosphere for these storms to form.
- Why did you decide to pursue a career in Meteorology?
I've always loved weather ever since I'm a kid. I am fascinated by the beauty and power of weather and the intricate science behind it.
- What is your favorite part about your job?
I love forecasting. Analyzing current conditions and model data to develop an accurate and specific forecast. I love most that I'm able to share my passion for weather with others through the medium of TV, and that I have the opportunity teach others about the science of weather--during newscasts, at speaking engagements, and on-line.
- What is your favorite season?
Fall is my favorite season. I love the cool, crisp weather. The 'smell of fall' in the air that resembles a burning campfire. Red, orange, and yellow leaves...it's so beautiful. And fall is a great season for hiking and camping with my dogs!
