Introduction

Sometimes the best reminder of why GIS matters comes from seeing it through fresh eyes. Recently, an energetic 8th grader with a real passion for maps and geography visited the King County GIS Center with his mom for a lunchtime learning adventure. His excitement, curiosity, and thoughtful questions made it a memorable visit with Fred Lott and the GIS Center staff. It was inspiring to see him realize just how much of daily life GIS quietly shapes. We’re happy to share his story here on the GIS & You blog, written in his own words as he reflects on what he learned and where his interests might take him next.

Lasers, Maps, and the Coolest Visit Ever
By Arthur Akalin 

Last week I visited the King County GIS Center, which is part of King County Information Technology, and it was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had. I am a rising 8th grader who loves geography and maps, but I never realized how much science, math, teamwork, and problem solving go into the maps that help our community every day. Did you know that there are people who spend their entire day turning data into tools that help keep everyone safe, prepared, and connected? I walked in curious, and I walked out in awe of how geography shapes the world around us.

During my visit, I learned things that truly surprised me. For example, did you know that airplanes can shoot lasers toward the ground to measure the shape and the depths of fields, forests, and neighborhoods? This technology is called LiDAR, and it works by sending out thousands of tiny laser pulses every second and measuring how long they take to bounce back. That timing tells computers the exact distance to the ground, which is how they create 3D maps that help plan for floods, heat waves, and emergencies.

Have you noticed how buses and roads all work together perfectly so people can get to school, work, soccer practice, or even the University of Washington on time? GIS helps make that possible by calculating routes and making sure transportation works for everyone. Seeing how all of this came together made the visit even more exciting.

At the end of the visit, I even got to take home fun maps that I hung in my bedroom, so I can look at them and think about studying geography and GIS in college one day.

I am very thankful to the King County GIS team for welcoming me and talking with me with so much kindness and enthusiasm. I came in with a page full of questions, and they were incredibly kind to answer them and talk with me about my interests. They also gave me great tips so I can keep exploring the skills I want to build. I am grateful for everything they showed me, and I am already dreaming about joining a team like theirs in the future.

I also want to thank my amazing community for supporting my interests and encouraging me to explore new opportunities. I left the King County building feeling inspired and motivated about the possibilities ahead.

About the Author

Arthur Akalin is a rising 8th grade student in Bellevue who loves geography, maps, and learning how science helps communities. He enjoys soccer, video games, and exploring new maps at HOTOSM, where he continues connecting his interests to his future college goals.