I chose to study Environmental Science because I do not know exactly what I want to do after college, but I am confident that this major can lead me to a decision, as it is very broad. After coming to UF, I realized the value of protecting and preserving our environment because I am from a suburban town in Texas where there is little biodiversity and not very many green spaces. As an environmental science major, I want to learn how to instill this love of nature in others in an ethical manner so that people learn the importance of the environment. Through SNRE, I have found the clubs UF GREBE, Gator Scuba, and EVSA, and all three of them make me feel at home, even though I am far away from my actual home. 

Next step after graduation: I am open to both graduate school and working in private and governmental organizations, and I know I want to study and/or have a career that is marine-related.  

I chose to study Environmental Science to better understand the issues facing the planet and work toward sustainable solutions. Growing up spending a lot of time outdoors, it was hard not to develop an interest in nature and conserving it. What drew me to the Environmental Science major is how interdisciplinary the study is. I am fascinated by the interactions between different fields such as politics, ethics, and economics, and how they relate to environmental issues. It is interesting to learn about how everything is connected, and every action we take has consequences, especially when it comes to the environment!

Grace Elwell

I chose to study environmental science to pursue my dream of shaping the future of urban development and agribusiness into being more sustainable and environmentally conscious. At least, that’s what I say now. When I began the major I had no idea that was something I would become so passionate about. Truthfully, I didn’t know what I wanted to do entering college; I was only certain that I wanted to explore different opportunities and find a career path I could enjoy. After majoring in anthropology for a year, I decided to take a chance on environmental science. I was drawn to how broad and interdisciplinary the major is and how I could choose my coursework to tailor the degree to my interests, which gave me the room I needed to grow and find exactly what those interests were. Over my time experiencing classes spanning topics from hydrology and ecological systems to natural resource law and economics, I discovered that passion I was looking for.

Next step after graduation: I plan on working in environmental planning or consulting, with the possibility of going back to school for a masters in sustainable development or a related field.

I chose to study environmental science because my passion is environmental education and I hope to connect as many people as possible to the outdoors and get them excited about the natural world. I am also getting a minor in STEM Education at UFTeach to help me achieve this goal.  My time at UF has helped me learn more about the natural world and use that knowledge to strengthen my ability to teach, do advocacy projects, and otherwise get involved in environmental work all around Alachua County. I currently co-direct Young Leaders for Wild Florida, an environmental summer program for teens.

Next step after graduation: After I graduate I hope to keep leading similar programs and continue making environmentalism more accessible and engaging for all.