Sam Jensen, MS in Geophysics, 2026
Hey! My name is Sam Jensen, and I’m a first year Master’s student at MTU. I am involved with the GMES department’s drone based geophysics program, focusing on magnetic surveys around the Keweenaw Peninsula/greater U.P. area. I am originally from Gladstone, MI and have been passionate about teaching during my time as a grad student. I hope to one day become a professor of geophysics, with the main goal of inspiring students as I have been inspired. I am also involved with Graduate Student Government at MTU, and was recently elected president of the organization.
My great grandfather, Paul Serafin, attended this university when it was still called the Michigan College of Mining and Technology (all the way back in 1932!). My grandfather, David Palo, was born and raised in the Keweenaw and I was lucky enough to explore this area with him since I was a small child. I knew MTU was where I wanted to be, but it took me a few years before I realized exactly what I wanted to do. If there’s one thing I’d like to say to undergraduates, it’s to never be afraid to switch paths. Money plays a large role in many peoples’ career decisions, but it shouldn’t be the largest factor. As cliché as it sounds, I think following your heart is more meaningful than (almost) any amount of zeros in a starting salary.
I am happy to have gotten my undergraduate degree in Applied Geophysics also from MTU. In my time here, I have realized how special the Keweenaw Peninsula truly is. The location, history, geology, and people are all so unique here. I am an avid outdoorsman – from backpacking in summer to ice fishing in winter, I am grateful to call this place my home.
