Meet the SNRE Envoys
Undergraduate degree: Business Administration, Boston College
Age: 32
Dual degree: MS/MBA (Erb)
Prior to SNRE: Peace Corps Honduras
Why Sustainable Systems?: I realize that communities will be using natural resources to earn a living. I want to ensure they do it sustainably so future generations can continue doing so.
The best part of SNRE so far: The people
“SNREdiest” thing he's done: Does carpool count?
After graduation: I would like to eventually start my own social enterprise.
Undergraduate degree: BS in Computer Engineering at Northwestern University
Age: 29
Dual degree: MBA/MS
Prior to SNRE: After undergrad, I worked in Deloitte Consulting's Data Management practice, doing big data projects before big data was cool. Then, I worked in Hangzhou, China for three years for China Windey, a wind turbine developer, building out a wind turbine data management system.
Why Sustainable Systems?: I wanted to gain a broad understand of energy at the intersection of technology, science, business, and policy. The systems perspective that is taught at SNRE and in the Sustainable Systems tracks provides this multidisciplinary understanding.
The best part of SNRE so far: It's great being part of a community that is working towards creating a more sustainable world through such a wide variety approaches, whether it is through better technology, sound policy, behavior change, or design.
“SNREdiest” thing he's done: Threw on some waders and did fish shocking at the biostation in Northern Michigan during SNRE orientation. By the end, I surprisingly was able to identify nearly all the fish species in that river.
After graduation: I want to pursue a career developing sustainable business practices and innovations in technology to help solve the world's energy challenges.
Undergraduate: Conservation Biology, B.S. and Fine Arts, B.A.
Undergraduate degree: Wellesley College, International Relations, 2005
Dual degree: Business
Prior to SNRE: I had a wonderful few years after college. I spent about three years traveling and studying. I went on a Fulbright to Jordan to research microfinance, then on a Rotary Ambassadorial Fellowship to South Africa and I got a Master’s in Economic Development. Then I worked in International Economic Development and relief work at Nathan Associates and International Medical Corps. Just prior to coming to Michigan, I re-launched a small business called Sustainable Development International (SDI).
The best part of SNRE so far: I love all the classes and the people are great!
“SNREdiest” thing she’s done: My team won the Dow Sustainability Innovation Student Challenge Award for developing a water treatment and delivery concept.
After graduation: I hope to work in corporate responsibility.
Undergraduate degree: West Point, Economics, 2006
Dual degree: Business
Age: 29
Prior to SNRE: I was a Captain in the U.S. Army where I served in different roles. I began my career with a 15-month deployment as a Fire Support Officer in Kamdesh, Afghanistan. After that experience, I served as a Minority Admissions Officer for the United States Military Academy. And finally, I finished my military career as a Recruiting Company Commander.
Why Sustainable Systems and Environmental Justice?: I was interested in getting an interdisciplinary experience. I believe the classes under the Sustainable Systems umbrella are very interesting and necessary for my future profession in business. However, that is only one part of the equation. It is important that we recognize that environmental effects may disproportionately affect low-income and minority individuals. To that end, I am pursing the Environmental Justice field of study as well as Sustainable Systems.
The best part of SNRE so far: My classmates! Everyone here has an interesting background. In addition, there are students from around the globe represented at SNRE, which allows you to gain a better understanding of different perspectives on sustainability and the environment.
“SNREdiest” thing he’s done: I have joined the student club UM Bees. I had no experience with bees, but now I am learning their importance to our planet. During this semester, we will construct three hives, which is very exciting. The confluence of learning and doing has been amazing. Plus, the opportunity to eat more honey is great! It's a win-win.
After graduation: I plan to pursue a career in strategy consulting. I want to help organizations develop sustainability strategies that guide them to reduce their carbon footprints, diminish their negative externalities, and increase overall efficiency and profitability.
Undergraduate degree: Howard University, c/o 2011 - Biology/Chemistry
Age: 23
Prior to SNRE: I worked for a year in Washington, DC at the Association for Psychological Science. During that time, I traveled and visited universities and basically enjoyed my time between schooling before coming to Michigan to advance my educational experience.
Why Environmental Justice?: Please look up the Principles of Environmental Justice! Essentially, each principle (17 in all) advocates for human rights, environmental advocacy and equality, all of which I'm totally about!
The best part of SNRE so far: This program [Environmental Justice] is unparallelled to any in the country AND we [University of Michigan] have many of the top-ranked graduate programs in the country. Interdisciplinary work is not only practiced, but encouraged! It is also a plus when the professors treat students like colleagues, which I thoroughly appreciate.
“SNREdiest” thing she's done: During orientation at the Biological Station, I participated in a scavenger hunt that ended in a competitive and spirited canoe race. This was hands down the best SNREdy experience ever!
After graduation: I plan to graduate with a dual degree in Environmental Health Science from the School of Public Health. Upon graduating, I'd like to work with communities in an urban setting focusing on the intersection of risk management and health and community activism, in a non-profit organization. And possibly go on to medical school to specialize in pediatric care.
Undergraduate degree: UC Berkeley, Environmental Economics, 2008
Dual degree: Applied Economics
Age: 27
Prior to SNRE:I was in Kenya, East Africa serving in the Peace Corps. I worked with an environmental conservation organization which protected wildlife from poachers and sold carbon credits through the REDD+ program.
Why Environmental Policy & Planning?:Environmental issues have become a burgeoning field as many are beginning to realize the importance of conservation, the dangers of climate change, and the necessity for sustainable growth. I chose environmental policy with a dual degree in applied economics because I have come to understand that policy plays an integral role in directing conservation.
The best part of SNRE so far: I like the diverse faculty body the most.
“SNREdiest” thing he’s done:I am a huge proponent of composting, so I have both an outdoor compost bin as well as an indoor vermiculture bin. My housemates are definitely on board with the outdoor compost, but I have yet to tell them that I have worms in a basket in my room.
After graduation:I hope to work on sustainable development in East Africa, potentially with USAID or similar organizations. There is a great need for awareness and action toward conservation globally, so I hope to be a part that goal.