Meteorology Alumna Ginger Zee ’02, Meteorologist, NBC 5 Chicago

While going through the college search process, I looked for a university that had an exceptional meteorology program, offered a generous scholarship package, and was close to family and home. Valparaiso University was the perfect place for me.

Valpo’s overall focus on students made it possible to achieve my academic goals. I experienced mentoring professors, small class sizes, and strong internship programs. One professor encouraged me to stay in the science of meteorology while exploring television through internships. That, coupled with my participation in activities such as VUSIT, Valpo’s storm-chasing program; Valpo’s student-run radio station, WVUR, and working as an on-air meteorologist at Lakeshore Public Television provided outstanding experiences and gave me a competitive edge over graduates from other schools.

Today, I am the Weekend Meteorologist and Environmental (“Going Green”) Reporter at WMAQ NBC 5 Chicago, where I am responsible for forecasting, building graphics, and delivering weather forecasts for the Chicagoland area from 6-10 am, 5 and 10 pm Saturdays and Sundays. I also worked day and night on location covering the Hurricane Katrina disaster. It was an amazing experience that gave me a true appreciation for life.

TV stations don’t just hire ‘weather gals’ – they hire layered humans with rich knowledge and a true passion for the science of meteorology. Valpo helped me develop those skills. I am truly proud to say that I’m a Valpo graduate.

Learn more about other Valpo’s Meteorology program at www.valpo.edu/geomet.