Victoria Thompson, a first-year Master of Environmental Management (MEM) and Master of Forestry (MF) 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?

I chose Duke specifically because of the concurrent MEM/MF program: the opportunity to develop hands-on techniques in the MF combined with the chance to learn the background for informed management in the MEM is something that immediately captivated me. These two degrees allow me to explore the full scope of my environmental interests and allow me to take advantage of Duke's research and learning forest. Further, I think that these two degrees complement each other well, and this combination will best prepare me for a career in this complex era of environmentalism.

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

In the MF so far, I have had the chance to learn some hands-on skills (i.e. tree measurements, stand health assessments) that are key to being a forester, and have had the incredible opportunity to apply them to real plots in the Duke Forest. Having these skills alone will serve me well in my future career, but I believe having a background in mapping and management theory from the MEM will set me apart professionally.

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

Choose your MEM concentrations thoughtfully and make sure that they complement what you will learn in the MF. There are so many great combinations to choose from, so ensure that it supports whatever your goals may be!

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

I loved working with my fellow foresters to host the Nicholas School field day, which is a really fun social event at the beginning of the fall semester. It was so much fun to camp out overnight the day before and bond with other students in the MF program, and so rewarding to see the MEM students enjoying all of our hard work the next day. It was really special to have both of my cohorts together, and it was a great way to start my time at Duke!