Take advantage of the financial freedom this scholarship affords you to take steps towards learning what you really want to do, even if it seems unconventional. Not everyone is lucky enough to go through college with financial support. If you feel you are able, college is the best time to try things out of your comfort zone and learn more about what opportunities are out there.
Name: Meena Toolaabee (Cohort 4)
Major: Civil and Environmental Engineering
Give a brief description of the experience.
I worked a total of 40 hours a week this past summer, split between 3 days a week for a nearby civil engineering firm within their public design sector and 2 days a week for an environmental science and ecological engineering start-up. I gained experience in stream restoration, ecological tech design and environmental site design.
What was the most impactful part of the experience?
The most impactful thing for me was getting to meet so many professionals that had pursued their passion for the environment as a career. I met people from all kinds of backgrounds, and seeing how everyone carved a unique path for themselves encouraged me to apply my own knowledge towards my passions.
What surprised you?
The variety of careers and backgrounds that encompass the environmental disciplines.
Did you make any personal and/or professional connections with peers?
Yes!
What were your major takeaways? What did you learn?
I learned about stream restoration and emerging eco-technologies such as algal turf scrubbers.
How have your career or academic goals changed or evolved as a result of this experience?
My goals have expanded now that I've seen the variety of opportunities available, and I am encouraged to apply myself to the topics of environmental engineering that interest me the most so that I can take that forward with me post-graduation.
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