Simon Heinberg, a second-year Master of Environmental Management (MEM) and Master of Public Policy (MPP) concurrent degree student, recently shared insights into why he's pursuing concurrent degrees, advice for students considering the concurrent degree path and his favorite memory so far.

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

I'm interested in environmental policy and pursuing the concurrent degree enables me to study both the natural sciences and public policy. Understanding the scientific underpinnings of environmental policy is a crucial skill that I hope will make me a better policy maker. 

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

The concurrent degree has enabled me to work at the intersection of environmental science and public policy. I've contributed to regulatory comments on rules released by the Environmental Protection Agency, applying technical skills I learned at the Nicholas School to a public policy issue. The MEM/MPP program has helped me collaborate with scientists, lawyers and policy makers.

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

I would look at which courses or other opportunities the second degree program offers that you can't access through a single degree program alone. Duke allows students to take classes from different departments and schools at the university, so a concurrent degree is not always necessary to pursue an interdisciplinary curriculum. If a single degree program can't satisfy all of your goals in graduate school, then a concurrent degree program may be a good option. 

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

My favorite memory is staying overnight in the Duke Forest in preparation for Nicholas School field day. The Nicholas School is such a great community, and field day is a special event that brings the whole school together. I loved being part of a group of students who stayed overnight in the Duke Forest cooking and preparing for the outdoor event that's held the following day.