Ashley Hillard, a first-year student in the Duke Environmental Leadership Master of Environmental Management (DEL-MEM) program, recently shared insights into why she's pursuing her degree, how she balances her studies while continuing her career and how she's applying what she's learning at work.

Hillard is a recruitment consultant working with Dylan Green – Clean Energy and Technology, as well as a freelance filmmaker. 

Why did you pursue the DEL-MEM degree?

When I first considered applying to grad programs, Duke stood out as a great option. In addition to Duke’s outstanding academic reputation, a multidisciplinary degree enables me to pursue my interests in clean energy, wildlife management and environmental policy without having to choose just one track and associated classes. Also, this program offers in-person sessions, which enables students to build more of a connection with the cohort, as well as the broader network of Duke students and faculty.

What’s been the highlight of your time in the program?

I really enjoy being a part of a cohort. Meeting in Durham enables everyone to get to know each other better as well as enjoy the on-campus experience. I’m learning a lot from the classes, as well as from other students in the program. Everyone has a unique perspective and experience, which provides additional opportunities to learn about other fields, sparks interesting conversations and inspires ideas. I also value the flexibility of the program, which enables me to continue my education in documentary filmmaking. Backgrounds in different disciplines are celebrated and there is support from the staff, faculty and classmates to explore classes that make sense for each student, including independent studies. I definitely feel set up to succeed!

How do you balance your career with your studies?

It can be a challenge to balance everything, but it has pushed me to improve my time management skills! I plan ahead, prioritize activities and stick to an organized schedule. In the end, it will be worth it!

How are you applying what you’ve learned to your job?

I just completed my first semester, and the initial classes provided a foundation for ecosystem management, economics, leadership as well as a great refresher on academic writing. The clean energy, policy and leadership classes will enhance my ability to be an effective recruiting consultant. Learning about ecosystem management and economics gives me a deeper understanding of ideas that I explore in my films.

As I continue through the program, I look forward to learning more about ecosystem management, clean energy, policy, law, documentary filmmaking as well as improving my leadership skills.