Introducing: My first “real” map
A modest beginning, but all geographers have to get started somewhere.
GIS Skills Demonstrated
Data Acquisition & Import – Uploaded and integrated census data into ArcGIS Pro.
Data Cleaning & Attribute Management – Edited and organized the attribute table to ensure accurate and usable data.
Cartographic Design – Framed the map to focus on the island, adjusted layout, and ensured clear presentation.
Map Elements Creation – Added and customized legend, scale bar, north arrow, and other essential map components.
Attention to Detail & Visualization – Applied appropriate color gradients and symbology to make data understandable and visually coherent.
Recounting my experiences on my journey to becoming a geographer, I accomplished a important goal: Making and exporting my very first map using ArcGIS Pro.
As a self-proclaimed geography nerd, I had definitely made maps before, but none like this. When really sitting down to make it, I realized just how many considerations that go into what seems like such a simple map on the surface: Who is this the audience? Where do I get the data? What color gradient makes sense? What do the margins need to be?
The good thing about practicing GIS tools in the classroom is that you can think through all of this without the pressure of real deadlines—or your head being on the chopping block for turning in sub-par work! ; )
During the community college course I completed last year, we were lucky enough to have an instructor who held our hand as we debuted our GIS skills on the world stage for all to see. The instructions we were provided walked us through how to complete this map step-by-step.
I quickly learned that even though all the steps are laid out in front of you in plain English (or Spanish), it isn’t as easy as following directions. One small mistake you make in a previous step can throw off your whole map!
Looking back at this map a year later, I see lots of things I could have done better (like making the chat labels more readable). That being said, the purpose of sharing this is not to nitpick my work (although feedback is welcome), but more to document my thought process, and ultimately, track my growth.
So yes, reflecting back on this moment, it was one small step for my GIS skills, but one giant leap for my future as a geographer! Up, up, up we go!
Thanks for taking the time to read, and stay tuned for more soon!