What is your previous work experience? 

After graduating from the University of British Columbia, I moved back to Mexico City where I worked as project coordinator in a circular economy consultant firm. I then started working at Pronatura Mexico, where I spent two and a half years working on voluntary and regulated carbon markets. I was project manager for the largest forestry carbon capture project in the country, working with communities in 200,000 hectares of forest, and I was a member of the Consultative Committee of the Emissions Trading System. Additionally, I was the Secretariat for the Mexican Alliance for Business and Biodiversity for two years. 

Why did you choose the Nicholas School?

Working in the Mexican Emissions Trading System, I became interested in market mechanisms for climate change mitigation, which lead me to find an interest in environmental economics overall. I was impressed by the program that the Nicholas School offered in this area, as it is unique and one of the best worldwide. Moreover, I was drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of all the programs, which allows me to get a well-rounded education and explore different aspects of my interests. Finally, I found the hands-on approach and client-based learning very enriching, as it helps us get a taste of what the real world is like, and prepares us better for a career after graduation.

What are you looking forward to as a new Nicholas School student?

I am looking forward to meeting my classmates and building a community of driven young professionals, as I believe that together we will contribute to shaping environmental initiatives and politics around the world. I am excited to learn from my classmates, and the rich background that each person will bring. I am also looking forward to improving my technical skills, but mostly honing my soft skills and confidence in environmental economics topics. 

Do you have any areas of interest or special focus you will undertake during your time at the Nicholas School?

One of my main areas of interest are emission trading systems, and market mechanisms in general and I want to learn more about their strengths and deficiencies, and ways of implementation. I have also worked closely with forest and rural communities for the past three years, and I'm very interested in their community environmental management and governance; it is something I want to explore more as well. 

What plans do you have for your career after the Nicholas School?

I would love to work for an international development agency, such as USAID or the UN, to implement valuable, impactful projects on the ground. I want to focus on climate change mitigation and the transition to a low-carbon economy, but through engagement at the community level.  However, I know that a lot can (and will) change in my two years at the Nicholas School, so I am open to exploring different career paths and opportunities that may arise.