Onward Q&A: An interview with Kasidee Fuller

MINOT, N.D. – From a dino-loving kid to a dino-loving adult, geology has been a field of joy for Kasidee Fuller. 

Fuller, a senior geology major from Visalia, California, has found that working with Cretaceous-period specimens has brought many opportunities and relationships. 

Now she is looking to pursue a path in paleontology.

After a year at San Diego State University and a couple of years away from college, Fuller found herself at Minot State because the University’s geology program aligned with her goals. 

University Communications sat down with Fuller to discuss her academic career, her geology research, and what she has learned from her time at Minot State for the latest installment of the Onward Q&A series.

Tell us a little about yourself: where are you originally from, what is your major, and did you attend any colleges prior to coming to Minot State?
KF: I am originally from Visalia, California, and attended Redwood High School. I am currently a senior at Minot State and minoring in biology in addition to my geology major. I originally went to SDSU (San Diego State University) after high school graduation, and after taking a couple of years’ break, I attended a couple of California community colleges before getting to MSU. I am the first person in my family to attend.

You said you are a geology major. What led you to choose that major? Was there any early interest that influenced that decision, and what influenced you chose Minot State?
KF: Absolutely, I loved dinosaurs as a kid and kept that into adulthood. When I decided to go back to school, I wanted to get a degree in a field I truly enjoyed. When looking into schools, Minot State’s geology program stood out and aligned with the goals I had in mind. 

What are some things you would like us to know about your current research?
KF: My research is interesting because it focuses on a mammal during the Cretaceous period! Sixty-six million years ago, when dinosaurs ruled, my fossil lived as a marsupial ancestor, eating hard-shelled clams on the edge of an intercontinental seaway. Another interesting fact is how much material is present — many of the specimens I have compared mine to are jaw fragments or teeth. My specimen has multiple teeth that have remained in the jaw, as well as part of the ramus, or the bone that attaches to jaw muscles in order for the animal to chew. 

Are there any organizations or clubs you are a part of on campus?
KF: I am the vice president of the A.U.G.I.T.E. club, or the geology club.

What are some of your favorite aspects of Minot State and being a Minot State student?
KF: Meeting my advisor, Dr. McCarville (Katherine McCarville, professor, geoscience), is hands down my favorite part of Minot State. She has such a wealth of knowledge and continuously pushes me to become the best paleontologist I can be. Dr. McCarville, in addition to many other professors, made my experience at MSU truly wonderful. Minot State also provides so many opportunities to attend professional events, present research, and make connections that will assist in a future career. 

What are your interests outside of classes? You brought up reading; what are some of your favorite books?
KF: I love reading! I mostly read fiction, fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and manga. Some of my favorite books of all time are “Conditions of Will” by Jessa Hastings and “One Dark Window”/ “Two Twisted Crowns” by Rachel Gillig.

How has your perspective on life changed since coming to Minot State?
KF: I used to think I was “behind,” or not at a place in life that I “should” be at. But during my time at Minot State, I have learned that there is no set timeline. Every person has a different path through life, and comparison really is the thief of joy! Everything happens for a reason, and I learned I am exactly where I need to be. It all sounds cliché, but it really is true.

What opportunities has Minot State created for you?
KF: My whole research project was created and sustained thanks to Minot State. Dr. McCarville had established relationships with the institution my specimen is on loan from, and the ND-SPARK (Sustainable Programs Advancing Research and Knowledge across North Dakota) program funded a large portion. Besides that, I was able to attend a national geology conference, present multiple research posters, and will (hopefully) be giving my first oral presentation next semester.

What is some advice as a senior that you have for incoming students?
KF: My advice is to get to know your professors, take advantage of opportunities within your field that MSU offers, and involve yourself in outreach events. Professors can help refer you to opportunities, which will be incredibly helpful when looking into careers or continued education.

What are some plans you have for after graduation and what may come?
KF: I am not 100% sure! I would love to continue into higher education, but I may want to pause my schooling for the moment to start a career. I plan on applying to paleontology internships and job openings near graduation, but I am open to graduate opportunities if it is meant to be! 

Anything else you would like to add?
KF: I would like to make sure I give credit to Shana Baisch at Baisch Dino Dig for the specimen that is on loan during my research.