Have you met our newest volunteer, Iain Brumley? Iain started volunteering earlier this summer. Say hello to him the next time you’re doing the fossil scavenger hunt!

WHAT’S YOUR TYPICAL VOLUNTEER WORKDAY LIKE?

I arrive at 9 a.m. to sign in and set up my station with educational materials. I work near the fossil wall, managing the fossil scavenger hunt. School groups and lots of kids come through starting mid-morning and I get to talk to them about dinosaurs and fossils - my favorite! I head home around 1 p.m.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR CAREER / WORK HISTORY

I was a camp counselor for two years, so I have experience with kids of most ages. I also worked with Halfacre Engineering as an assistant to the engineer and an assistant home inspector in preparation for my time at MSU studying architecture.

DO YOU HAVE ANY BACKGROUND IN SCIENCE?

I don't really have much of a formal scientific background, but my insatiable thirst for knowledge won't let me rest without researching whatever it is that's on my mind. So, I like to think I've attained a nebulous, but extensive, knowledge on a little bit of everything!

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO VOLUNTEER AT THE MUSEUM?

I heard great things from other volunteers, and so I figured it would be a good experience. Since I love working with kids and have an inquisitive mind, it just seemed like a great fit!

HAVE YOU WORKED IN AN AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION BEFORE?

Not at all! But the great thing about volunteering here is that the museum has a qualified and friendly staff who are more than happy to show you the ropes.

ARE YOU AN “ANIMAL PERSON”? DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE ANIMAL?

I love animals! I'm a fan of all critters big and small, but I have a particular attraction towards birds.

DO YOU ENJOY THE OUTDOORS? DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE NATURAL AREA?

Honestly, I would consider myself an indoor person, but I definitely appreciate the outdoors. I do camp often and go on such trips every chance I get. But personally, I am always excited to get back into the A/C!

HOW HAS VOLUNTEERING AT THE MUSEUM AFFECTED YOU?

I love working here. I’ve learned just how much I love teaching the younger crowd things that I’m passionate about! It definitely brings a smile to my face every time I come in.

WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE SOMEONE TO BECOME AN MMNS VOLUNTEER?

If you like working with kids or enjoy learning about science, you would LOVE the museum. It's truly a rewarding experience!