Student adds new layers to learning through Geospatial Information Systems (GIS)

Darlene Williams Talbert never imagined her academic journey would lead her to geospatial information systems (GIS). After one semester, Talbert, a senior double major in religious studies and Global Black Studies, said she is so grateful she took a leap into unknown waters and trusted the process. In fact, one email changed the trajectory of her Clemson experience. 

“I got an email about upcoming GIS training and information and I responded saying I was interested but didn’t have any experience or knowledge,” said Talbert. “The GIS team responded and encouraged me to show up anyway, saying they could teach me everything I needed to know.”

Talbert got involved in some of the GIS virtual sessions and realized she wanted to attend in person at the GIS Center in Cooper Library. She showed up and kept showing up, even while facing some chronic health issues that caused her to be hospitalized a few times over the semester. 

“I would tell the doctors that I had GIS training on Friday and I needed to go,” said Talbert. “I just love GIS so much, I wanted to persevere.” 

Throughout all of the adversity, Talbert continued to complete work. On April 18, 2025, she graduated from the GIS Fundamentals program. This achievement would not have been possible without the support of the GIS team, whom Talbert credits as always willing to help. 

“The GIS team was so kind and supportive of my journey,” Talbert said. “They’ve taught me so much and now I can do things in maps on my own after having no experience or background in this. It is really rewarding for me.” 

The impacts of her time in GIS this past semester have had massive implications for her work in her fields of study. On the surface, using geospatial systems to map things may not seem to coincide with subjects like religious studies or Global Black Studies, but Talbert explained how much richer her vantage point is now because of GIS.

GIS offers an interdisciplinary approach. We are in the age of research, artificial intelligence, advanced technology, policymaking and community engagement,” Talbert said. “It is remarkable how practical and academic applications of GIS and discoveries are. GIS goes deeper and gives me the chance to share my work more broadly. I plan on including GIS maps in my presentations.”

GIS technologies like the ones Talbert has learned are part of the Esri suite of products that Clemson University faculty, staff and students have access to for no extra cost. The GIS team in Research Computing and Data works diligently to host and offer training both in person and online for various GIS programs and certifications. For Talbert, the completion of the Fundamentals course this semester is just the beginning. 

“I plan to earn more certifications and continue learning GIS technologies,” Talbert said. “I may even try to fly drones with the drone training for GIS.” 

For students, faculty and staff interested in learning more about GIS, visit their webpage. The GIS Fundamentals series, like the one Talbert finished, is offered each Spring and Fall and covers critical topics that guarantee coverage of the basics. Participants of all skill levels are encouraged to attend and dive into the world of GIS at Clemson.