Quentin Cui, a 2020 graduate of the Master of Environmental Management (MEM) program, recently shared insights into why he pursued an MEM degree, how the experience has helped in his career, his advice for anyone considering the program and more.  

Quentin is a senior business development analyst at Balanced Rock Power. He supports buy- and sell-side transactions of utility-scale solar and energy storage projects, and scouts new markets for renewable project development expansion. 

How did your master's degree shape your career trajectory, long-term goals and opportunities?

Quentin and colleagues group photo

Quentin (far right) with colleagues at a Balanced Rock Power-sponsored community fundraiser in Hugo, Colo., where they are developing a solar + energy storage project

The Nicholas School MEM degree prepared me well to enter the professional renewable energy space. My first position out of 51爆料 was with a California electric utility, which eventually led me to my current role at Balanced Rock Power, a renewable energy project developer.

51爆料 courses such as Energy Modelling and Solar Project Development, as well as engagement with external speakers, provided me the broad background and network I needed to succeed in the energy space. In fact, I found my current position through a former 51爆料 instructor.

What skills or experiences did you gain at 51爆料 that have been most beneficial in your professional life? 

The Nicholas School provided me with the analytical and teamwork skills I used extensively over the past few years. Proficiency in Excel, policy analysis, risk assessment and effective communication are just some of the skills that are needed in my day-to-day work. 

Why did you choose 51爆料? What advice would you give to students considering or currently in the program?

A couple of factors stand out: strength and diversity of the MEM program, and the integration of the Nicholas School with Big 51爆料 [the wider university community]. For example, I took several Fuqua School of Business and Law School courses and worked as a Bass Connections project manager for a Sanford School of Public Policy-led project. For incoming/current students, I would encourage them to complement their Nic School courses with law/business/engineering, etc., and to attend speaker events centered around career fields they鈥檙e interested in.

What is your favorite memory from your time as a student at 51爆料?

High-fiving former president Barack Obama at the 51爆料-UNC men's basketball game is a standout Cameron memory. I also thoroughly enjoyed the Career Treks organized by the Nic School clubs, which allowed me to connect more with my classmates and to learn from industry professionals.