![](https://uwm.edu/innovativeweather/wp-content/uploads/sites/619/2022/08/Ilijana-Mastilovic.jpg)
Ilijana Mastilovic
- PhD Candidate, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
I am Ilijana Mastilovic and I am originally from Serbia, I grew up in a small city at the Adriatic coast, Tivat, Boka Bay, Montenegro. As a child I was fascinated by thunderstorms, passing by over the bay. I have always been interested in a weather science.
I graduated from University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia with Bachelor and Master`s degree in Meteorology Science. After graduation I worked as an Aviation Weather Forecaster in Bosnia and Herzegovina for almost 3 years. I am very thankful for this experience that allowed me to perceive the complexity of Meteorology and realize that I would like to take my education to the next level. My time as an undergraduate student opened my eyes to the excitement of science. I had a chance to do some original research on my Master studies. It inspired and encouraged me to pursue my education to the PhD level. I enjoy my academic work as well as operational work. I am very grateful to have a chance to be part of Innovative Weather. It is a great opportunity to learn more about operational forecasting and improve forecasting skills! In my spare time I enjoy traveling, learning about new places, playing flute and listen music, hiking and spending time in nature!