Alejandra Jaramillo, a third-year Master of Environmental Management (MEM) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Kenan-Flagler School of Business concurrent degree student, recently shared insights into why she's pursuing concurrent degrees, advice for students considering the concurrent degree path and her favorite memory so far.

Why did you choose to pursue a concurrent degree with the MEM?

Ale, faculty and classmates with Rev. Dr. Benjamin Chavis (middle)

I chose to pursue a concurrent degree with the MEM to enhance my leadership and attain a mid-level position after graduation with competitive compensation that will allow me to achieve my long-term goal of leading strategic climate resilience initiatives within a public school district.

What skills or experiences did you gain across the concurrent degree program that WILL BE beneficial in your professional life?

The concurrent degree program provided me with invaluable experiences that significantly enhanced my professional capabilities. I undertook two internships, which introduced me to new functions and work environments. Over three years, I participated in four experiential learning opportunities, including the STAR Consulting Practicum at Kenan-Flagler and the Fuqua Client Consulting Practicum at Duke, gaining hands-on experience with diverse industries and challenges.

Additionally, attending Energy Week at Duke, the Climate Cap conference and participating in an international exchange program in Barcelona has further enriched my learning, allowing me to engage with other students and experts, as well as broadening my professional and personal outlook.

What advice would you give to students considering a concurrent degree path or currently in the program?

Plan with intention while remaining open to unexpected opportunities. The effort you invest directly influences what you gain, so always align your actions with your professional goals. However, remember that this journey also offers personal growth. Embrace chances to expand your perspectives, foster self-awareness and enhance your cultural competency. By doing so, you'll graduate feeling fulfilled not only professionally but also as a well-rounded individual.

What is your favorite memory from your time in the program?

My favorite memory from the program was connecting with peers who shared not only unique professional interests but also a commitment to justice, personal growth and community.

Through clubs like Diverse & Inclusive Community for the Environment (DICE) and the Working Group on the Environment in Latin America (WGELA), and courses such as Community-Based Environmental Management (CBEM), I formed bonds with students that shared similar identities and lived-experiences.

For example, a memorable experience was participating in the 40th Anniversary Commemoration March of the Environmental Justice Movement in Warren County, North Carolina, where I met Rev. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis. Dr. Chavis, a pivotal figure in Civil Rights and environmental justice, was one of over 500 people arrested in 1982 for protesting the dumping of PCB-contaminated soil in a predominantly Black community. This experience offered through the CBEM curriculum has significantly shaped my professional work and leadership aspirations.