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• MEM Environment Concentration: Energy and Environment (EE)
• MEM Management Concentration: Environmental Economics and Policy (EEP)
• Expected Graduation Date: May 2028
   

What factors were most important in your decision to choose the Nicholas School for your graduate studies? And, how will your time at the Nicholas School help you reach your career aspirations?

The Nicholas Scholar recognition and financial support were significant factors that pushed me to choose the Nicholas School. As someone pivoting into the environmental field, the recognition gave me an extra push to overcome my “imposter syndrome” and see myself as someone who could succeed in this program and industry. The scholarship itself alleviates some of the financial burden and fear that comes with stepping away from working full-time and going back to school. I am incredibly grateful to have received this recognition and support.

After graduating from the MEM program, I hope to work in federal environmental policy, sitting at the intersection of business and government to accelerate renewable energy investment and hold the private sector accountable for its environmental impact.

With this career goal in mind, I was particularly drawn to this program because of its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, its focus on application, and its rich, passionate community. With five years of work experience in a different sector, I came to the MEM program needing to build both technical skills—hard math and science—and policy expertise. The program's interdisciplinary structure lets me do both at once. The project, internship, and career opportunities available at the Nicholas School, from the Environmental Law and Policy Clinic to the Stanback Fellowship, made the program even more appealing. Finally, from the alumni I spoke with and the current students and professors I met at admitted students’ day, it was clear that the Nicholas School was full of bright students and faculty who are truly committed to creating a better future for people and the planet. This is exactly who I want to spend my time with on a personal and professional level.  

Beyond the Nicholas School, the passion, intelligence, and resources of ���Ĵ�ý as a whole made me want to become a Blue Devil for life!

I would be remiss not to mention that I did not apply to graduate school alone—my husband applied to law schools at the same time that I applied to graduate programs. His acceptance and aid from Duke Law in combination with my Nicholas Scholar recognition made our decision easy. We’re proud to both be Duke students.