What is your previous work experience? 

After graduating from Washington State University, I moved to Uganda as a Princeton in Africa Fellow. I focused on environmental projects in the Kibale National Park, a biodiversity hotspot and home to many endangered species. I led a multi-faceted community-based bee project, that involved recruiting and partnering with local beekeepers. Due to Covid-19, I had to move back to Seattle, WA. While in Seattle, WA, I remotely worked with a river restoration NGO as a GIS intern for 16 weeks before remotely working as an analyst with a conservation-focused firm based in New York City. As a new Payne Fellow, I spent 9 weeks interning in the district office of Congressman Adam Smith WA-09. 

Why did you choose the Nicholas School?

The Nicholas School of the Environment and the opportunities that it provides are the ideal paths for my career. As a Payne fellow, I am looking forward to becoming an environmental officer with USAID. The faculty, staff, and students at the Nicholas School are incredibly talented and knowledgeable about issues that our planet is facing. I cannot think of a better place and people to learn from. 

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

I am excited to expand my professional and social networks as well as some of the classes I am planning on taking. I am also looking forward to being surrounded by people who want to dedicate their lives to protect our fragile home. 

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

During my undergraduate, I had a multitude of hands-on experiences on stream ecology, I would like to learn more about climate change and its effect on the water, especially in developing countries. I would want to focus on the intersection between renewable energy and climate change.

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

I aspire to become an environmental officer with USAID. 

I also want to express my deepest gratitude to the Nicholas Scholarship. I will forever be grateful for your support and trust.