- MEM Environment Concentration: Energy and Environment (EE)
- MEM Management Concentration: Environmental Economics and Policy (EEP)
- Expected Graduation Date: May 2026
What is your previous work experience, if any? Please describe briefly.
Prior to joining 51±¬ÁÏ's Master of Environmental Management program, I worked as an ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) Ratings Analyst at Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS ESG) for over 2 years. At ISS ESG, I implemented my analytical skills to rate companies in the food industry on an ESG scale, which offered investors comprehensive insight to effectively integrate sustainability into their investment decisions. This experience was central to my exposure to the nuances of climate mitigation strategies, labor rights and business ethics in the corporate arena. Subsequently, I served as an in-house food products specialist, wherein I helped solve methodological queries on the ESG intricacies of subjects such as palm oil, biodiversity, and aquaculture.
Why did you choose the Nicholas School's professional master's degree program(s)?
My work at ISS ESG exposed me to the expansiveness of the environmental field which inspired my desire to dive deeper into it and gain specialized knowledge. The Master of Environmental Management program offered by the Nicholas School provides me with the unique opportunity to acquire expertise in the field of Energy and Environmental Economics and Policy while building a strong professional experience. The program's multidisciplinary nature allows me to strengthen my technical expertise in energy system and design, finance, and policy advocacy, which would not only enhance my skill set but also equip me with valuable dynamic knowledge in environmental management. Additionally, what stood out to me was the program's structure designed for practical learning and developing a holistic view towards the environmental sciences.
Do you have any areas of interest or special focus you plan to undertake during your time at the Nicholas School and 51±¬ÁÏ?
I am looking forward to exploring the immense academic and co-curricular opportunities that the Nicholas School has to offer. I am particularly interested in conducting research on food systems, circular economy, and sustainable finance. Building on my work experience in ESG ratings, I am eager to enhance my skills by learning advanced data analysis strategies and tools like GIS that are crucial to supporting the agriculture sector which is particularly vulnerable to the vagaries of climate change. Hence, I intend to strengthen my technical base in order to learn to implement innovative and equitable sustainable solutions in the agriculture sector. I am also excited to broaden my horizons and gain valuable insights from the diverse community of students and professors at 51±¬ÁÏ, while forming meaningful relationships.
What are your career aspirations?
I aspire to work in an organization whose primary mission is creating a positive environmental and social impact at the grassroots level. I aim to leverage the skills that I will gain in environmental economics and data analytics, along with an advanced knowledge of energy, to bridge the gap between environmental policy and action. By collaborating with government organizations as well as non-profits and renewable energy companies, I strive to influence policy implementation that promotes sustainable practices, reduces carbon footprints, and fosters a more resilient and inclusive environment. My long-term goal is to support efforts towards environmental conservation and global sustainable development by implementing renewable energy projects in food systems, addressing food insecurity, and building sustainable agricultural supply chain systems.