From the time I was sixteen, the nonprofit sector has been the place where my values and sense of responsibility toward the world have aligned. Every major step I’ve taken, whether personal, academic, or professional, has been shaped by a desire to contribute to something larger than myself. A huge reason for this is my parents. My dad started his own nonprofit when he was young. He is an immigrant from Macedonia, and he worked on the UNESCO world heritage sites in Ohrid, where my whole family line is. When he came to the US, he continued this work and created a nonprofit organisation focused on the built environment and preserving natural heritage sites. This commitment pushed me to move across the world on my own to work for a nonprofit in London focused on Southeast Asia called the GreenShoots Foundation. There, I supported projects addressing menstrual equity for women and girls and contributed to biogeography initiatives in Cambodia. That experience grounded me in the realities of global inequality and showed me how community‑driven solutions can transform lives when they are rooted in dignity and access. My academic path deepened that foundation. I earned a master’s degree in Environmental Protection and Management from the University of Edinburgh, where I focused on the intersection of environmental justice, policy, and sustainable development. I then spent the last year working in the Scottish Parliament for a prominent Member of Parliament, gaining first-hand experience in how policy is shaped, challenged, and implemented. That role strengthened my understanding of the political and institutional levers needed to create systemic change. I have also worked for politicians in the US. Now, I am bringing that expertise back into the nonprofit world as the Net Zero Lead at Built Environment Forum Scotland. My work focuses on helping the historic environment transition toward carbon neutrality, which is an effort that requires balancing cultural heritage with climate responsibility. It’s a role that allows me to merge environmental science, policy knowledge, and nonprofit leadership to support communities and institutions navigating the climate crisis. Ultimately, my heart has always been in the nonprofit sector because it is where I feel I can make the most meaningful impact. My long‑term goal is to return to the United States and establish my own nonprofit dedicated to advancing ecocide law. Many countries are beginning to recognize ecocide as a criminal offense, and I believe the U.S. must be part of that global movement. By drawing on my international best practice, I hope to educate communities, influence policymakers, and build momentum for legal frameworks that protect ecosystems and hold perpetrators of environmental destruction accountable. I want my career to help create a world where environmental harm is not an accepted cost of progress but a violation of our collective responsibility to future generations. The nonprofit sector has given me the tools, the purpose, and the community to pursue that vision, and I am committed to using my work to create lasting, positive change. I have always balanced full‑time work alongside my studies, both during my Master’s programme and earlier as an undergraduate at the University of Minnesota, where I earned my degree in Environmental Geography. Despite my commitment and discipline, the student loans I carry make it incredibly difficult to begin saving toward my long‑term goals. At the moment, I am living paycheck to paycheck, working weekends in a café in addition to my full‑time role with BEFS. A scholarship like this would be transformative for me to fully pursue my dream career in the nonprofit sector, where I know I can make a meaningful impact.

My passion for protecting the environment is deeply rooted in both my love for nature and my commitment to social justice. Growing up, I was inspired by the beauty of our planet and troubled by the environmental challenges we face. However, it was my hands-on experiences with marginalized communities that truly shaped my understanding of the intersection between environmental and social issues. During my volunteer work in Cambodia, where I engaged in agricultural programs and promoted biodegradable sanitary pads for women, I saw how environmental degradation disproportionately affects the most vulnerable. These experiences reinforced my belief that environmental protection must go hand in hand with efforts to support marginalized communities. I learned that sustainable solutions should prioritize the needs of those who are often overlooked, ensuring that our environmental efforts also address social inequities. Currently, as a Master’s student in Environmental Management and Protection at the University of Edinburgh, my studies are focused on tackling climate change through effective policy and management strategies. My thesis on marine and ocean policy in Scotland reflects my commitment to finding solutions that protect marine ecosystems while considering the needs of local communities, including marginalized groups. This academic work is essential for developing and advocating for policies that not only mitigate climate change but also promote environmental justice. In my daily life, I strive to live sustainably through intentional choices. I minimize my reliance on single-use plastics, adopt a zero-waste lifestyle, and prioritize sustainable food choices by supporting local and organic agriculture. These practices are informed by my volunteer work and my understanding of the broader impacts of waste and consumption on the environment and marginalized communities. When advising my family and friends on reducing their carbon footprint, I emphasize the importance of making mindful, impactful choices. Simple actions like reducing single-use plastics, choosing local and sustainable products, and conserving energy can collectively lead to significant environmental benefits. I also encourage them to view these actions through the lens of community impact, recognizing that helping the planet is intrinsically linked to helping people—especially those who are disproportionately affected by environmental issues. In addition, I advocate for supporting systemic changes by engaging with and promoting policies that drive sustainability and equity. By integrating compassion with environmental action, we can ensure that our efforts to combat climate change are inclusive and equitable. In summary, my passion for environmental protection is fueled by a profound love for nature and a dedication to social justice. My studies equip me with the tools to address climate change through both scientific research and policy development, with a particular focus on marginalized communities. By making sustainable choices in my daily life and advocating for systemic change, I aim to contribute to a future where both the planet and its people thrive together.

As a Master's student in Environmental Management and Protection at the University of Edinburgh, sustainability is not only a field of study but a guiding principle in my daily life. My commitment to living sustainably stems from a deep understanding of the environmental challenges we face and my belief in the power of individual actions to drive collective change. One of the intentional choices I make is to minimize my reliance on single-use plastics. After volunteering in Cambodia, where I worked on projects promoting biodegradable sanitary pads for women, I became acutely aware of the environmental and social impacts of waste. This experience motivated me to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle, focusing on reusable products and composting to reduce waste sent to landfills. Additionally, I prioritize sustainable food choices by supporting local and organic agriculture. During my volunteer work with agricultural programs for students in Cambodia, I saw firsthand the benefits of sustainable farming practices, which further fueled my commitment to eating locally sourced, plant-based foods. These choices not only support local economies but also reduce the carbon footprint associated with food production and transportation. Transportation is another area where I actively work to lower my carbon footprint. I have chosen to walk, bike, or use public transport whenever possible. Living in a city like Edinburgh, this choice is not only practical but also reinforces my commitment to reducing emissions and promoting cleaner air for all. I believe that reducing one's carbon footprint is crucial because the collective impact of individual actions can significantly slow the pace of climate change. We are at a critical juncture where the choices we make today will determine the quality of life for future generations. Through my work on ocean and marine policy in Scotland, I have seen the devastating effects of climate change on marine ecosystems. This knowledge reinforces the urgency of reducing carbon emissions and adopting sustainable practices at both personal and policy levels. My dedication to sustainability extends beyond my personal life. As an intern with an environmental organization in London, I worked on initiatives that advocated for stronger environmental protections and sustainable development practices. I plan to continue this work by focusing my career on policy and advocacy, ensuring that sustainable choices are not just encouraged but required by law. However, the financial challenges I have faced throughout my life have made it difficult to fully dedicate myself to these pursuits. Balancing full-time work with my studies the last 5 years has been challenging, and I recognize that additional support would allow me to expand my impact even further. Receiving this scholarship would enable me to devote more time to my thesis on marine policy and continue my journey towards making meaningful contributions to environmental conservation. In conclusion, my commitment to sustainability is rooted in my academic and practical experiences, my passion for environmental protection, and my belief in the importance of individual and collective action. I am determined to continue my efforts to reduce my carbon footprint and inspire others to do the same, as I work towards a future where sustainable living is the norm, not the exception.

Embarking on my Master's degree journey in Environmental Management at the University of Edinburgh represents more than just a personal academic pursuit; it's a profound commitment to effecting positive change on a global scale. Through my studies, I aim to leverage my expertise to tackle pressing environmental challenges and promote sustainability both in the United States and abroad. My focus on ecofeminism underscores my holistic approach to addressing the intricate interplay between gender, environment, and social justice. In today's world, where the impacts of climate change loom large and environmental degradation threatens ecosystems worldwide, the role of environmental management professionals has never been more vital. Equipped with the knowledge and skills gained from my Master's program, I am poised to confront multifaceted environmental issues with a strategic and interdisciplinary approach. My understanding of environmental policy, resource management, and sustainable practices provides a solid foundation for implementing effective solutions that mitigate environmental harm and foster ecological resilience. My experience working overseas in the UK has enriched my perspective and equipped me with insights into advanced environmental policies, technologies, and practices. This international exposure enables me to facilitate knowledge transfer and foster global collaboration in addressing environmental challenges effectively. However, my aspirations extend beyond conventional environmental management paradigms. My dedication to ecofeminism reflects my commitment to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, particularly women, in environmental advocacy and action. Ecofeminism recognizes the interconnectedness of gender inequality and environmental degradation, advocating for the simultaneous addressing of both for sustainable development. My vision is to support women through environmental work in developing nations, recognizing the disproportionate burden they bear due to their roles as primary caregivers, resource managers, and agricultural workers. By empowering women with education, resources, and leadership opportunities in environmental initiatives, I aim to promote gender equality and enhance community resilience in the face of environmental challenges. My career trajectory embodies a synergy between environmental management and social justice, acknowledging that sustainable development requires addressing underlying inequities and power dynamics. Whether through community-based projects, policy advocacy, or capacity-building initiatives, my work holds the potential to catalyze transformative change at the intersection of gender and the environment. As I embark on my professional journey, I am mindful that my Master's degree is not merely a credential but a platform for making a meaningful impact. By harnessing the principles of environmental management and ecofeminism, I am determined to be a catalyst for positive change, both locally and globally. Through my dedication, passion, and interdisciplinary approach, I aim to contribute to building a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable planet for current and future generations of women and beyond.

I am currently a dedicated master's student enrolled in the prestigious Environmental Protection and Management program at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Within this comprehensive program, my primary area of focus lies in marine policy management, a field that deeply intrigues me due to its critical role in safeguarding our oceans. As part of my academic journey, I am enthusiastic about contributing to the greater understanding of the alarming issue of plastic pollution in marine environments and its profound repercussions on both marine species and human populations. To achieve this, I am fervently planning to develop a dissertation thesis centered on the multifaceted aspects of plastic pollution. For a period spanning three months, I intend to embark on extensive field research along the coasts of England, with a particular emphasis on the regions of Cornwall and Suffolk. During this time, my approach will involve conducting in-depth interviews with coastal communities, gaining invaluable insights into how the omnipresence of plastics in our waters has intricately woven itself into their daily lives, economies, and ecosystems. Additionally, I plan to harness the capabilities of remotely operated vehicle (ROV) software, which will facilitate underwater marine life observations. This advanced technology will enable me to create a comprehensive inventory of various marine locations, allowing for a meticulous examination of the biodiversity levels present. I aim to identify areas that have experienced significant alterations due to plastic pollution, shedding light on the impact this crisis has on the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. By delving into this vital research, I aspire to contribute to the growing body of knowledge essential for crafting informed policies and interventions to address the pressing issue of plastic pollution in our oceans. I am currently enrolled in a Coastal Communities and Environments course, which places a strong emphasis on understanding the profound impacts of environmental changes and anthropogenic factors on oceans worldwide. Within this course, we explore how marine life, particularly seaweed, can offer substantial benefits to humanity in terms of food supply, medical applications, and the potential for clean energy generation. These captivating subjects have ignited a strong passion within me to bring this knowledge back to the United States. I aspire to collaborate with major corporations and urban areas, providing consultancy services aimed at transitioning towards cleaner and more sustainable energy practices. Additionally, I am driven to promote a deeper understanding of the carbon sequestration process, with a particular focus on comprehending the emissions being released into the atmosphere. This understanding is crucial, as it has direct implications for our oceans and, consequently, the well-being of human populations. Oceans have always been a safe space for me to center myself and relax, and my time spent in or near the water always gives me the clearest mind to contribute the most to my life. I have career plans to devote my life to helping conserve the oceans, as they are one of the very most important aspects of our planet and how we survive. I feel as though the "Blue Economy" term that is gradually becoming more popular has immense potential to bring a sustainable future to the planet through ocean care and resources for our planet and humanity.

I have been an active advocate for the environment since I was 12 years old. Ever since I can remember, I had a strong passion for the natural world. This passion has not ceased. I went to the University of Minnesota to study Environmental Geography and Sustainability Studies. I graduated with a BA. Therefore, I am a recent graduate with an extensive environmental education. With 5+ years of dedicated experience in non-profit and customer service work, empathy and passion have taken me far in my professional career, which includes 5 months of working experience abroad. I worked for an environmental non-profit in London called GreenShoots. While there, I worked to obtain grants for our recent project, "Green Flow." This project is to help create biodegradable sanitary pads for women in Cambodia and throughout South East Asia. In Cambodia, a survey conducted by Fauna and Flora International (FFI) in Koh Rong and Koh Sdach islands, revealed that plastics from the region accounted for 80% of coastal pollution found on mainland beaches. We worked to create educational programs to combat this marine waste and additional pollution issues that are simply not taught in their nation. I had a focus on freshwater, ocean and marine conservation in college, and I feel as though my work through advocacy helped to get more people aware of the issues in the Mississippi River that flow through our campus. I was the president of our Environmental Student Association where we worked to clean up trash and combat the pollution from the East Phillips neighborhood that contributed the most to the pollution in the river. I completed my senior capstone project, "An Analysis of the Effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas in Preventing Coral Loss" which focused on the different types of coral restoration and the most energy-efficient ways to do so. I researched what routes are most sustainable for our oceans, and the ways to obtain the financial basis to do so. I am continuing my education at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, to obtain an MSc in Environmental Protection and Management, which focus on ocean conservation. This degree will help me to gain advanced skills in the processes that give rise to environmental degradation and the strategies to affect sustainable change. Unfortunately in the US, there are lots of climate deniers who are in high-level positions in our government. In the UK, this is not the case. As climate change has warmed the oceans greatly, the ocean has suffered terrible consequences. The pH levels are lower than they have been in a century, and marine animals and fish are struggling to survive. The impacts are worsening each year. The oceans are rising due to the ice caps melting, and the ocean becomes more acidic each year as the CO2 in the atmosphere rises. The importance of environmental policy work cannot be overstated. Environmental policy work is essential for the future of our planet and the well-being of humankind. With the increase in global population and industrialization, the demand for natural resources has increased dramatically, leading to unsustainable practices and environmental degradation. Environmental policies help to address these challenges by establishing regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable development practices, protect natural resources, and mitigate environmental impact. My studies overseas will help me to gain international connections and knowledge of the work that is being done in Europe, which will give me a necessary advantage that many others will not have when they step into their professional career. I plan to use my postgraduate education to protect our oceans and make sustainable changes in the US and beyond.

I have been an active advocate for the environment since I was 12 years old. Ever since I can remember, I had a strong passion for the natural world. This passion has not ceased. I went to the University of Minnesota to study Environmental Geography and Sustainability Studies. I graduated with a BA. Therefore, I am a recent graduate with an extensive environmental education. With 5+ years of dedicated experience in non-profit and customer service work, empathy and passion have taken me far in my professional career, which includes 5 months of working experience abroad. I worked for an environmental non-profit in London called GreenShoots. While there, I worked to obtain grants for our recent project, "Green Flow." This project is to help create biodegradable sanitary pads for women in Cambodia and throughout Southeast Asia. In Cambodia, women are not seen as equal to an entirely different standard than in the US. I find that with my privilege and ability to continue my education, I will be able to help women from a social and environmental standpoint as well. I had a focus on freshwater, ocean and marine conservation in college, and I feel as though my work through advocacy helped to get more people aware of the issues in the Mississippi River that flow through our campus. I was the president of our Environmental Student Association where we worked to clean up trash and combat the pollution from the East Phillips neighborhood that contributed the most to the pollution in the river. I completed my senior capstone project, "An Analysis of the Effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas in Preventing Coral Loss" which focused on the different types of coral restoration and the most energy-efficient ways to do so. I researched what routes are most sustainable for our oceans, and the ways to obtain the financial basis to do so. I am continuing my education at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, to obtain an MSc in Environmental Protection and Management, which focus on ocean conservation. This degree will help me to gain advanced skills in the processes that give rise to environmental degradation and the strategies to affect sustainable change. Unfortunately in the US, there are lots of climate deniers who are in high-level positions in our government. In the UK, this is not the case. As climate change has warmed the oceans greatly, the ocean has suffered terrible consequences. The pH levels are lower than they have been in a century, and marine animals and fish are struggling to survive. The impacts are worsening each year. The importance of environmental policy work cannot be overstated. Environmental policy work is essential for the future of our planet and the well-being of humankind. With the increase in global population and industrialization, the demand for natural resources has increased dramatically, leading to unsustainable practices and environmental degradation. Environmental policies help to address these challenges by establishing regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable development practices, protect natural resources, and mitigate environmental impact. This is an area where I feel that I can thrive. My studies overseas will help me to gain international connections and knowledge of the work that is being done in Europe, which will give me a necessary advantage as a woman that many others will not have when they step into their professional career. I plan to use my postgraduate education to protect our oceans and make sustainable changes in the US and beyond. I strongly believe that I deserve this scholarship, as it will take me far toward my goals to help women and the planet for all.

I have been an active advocate for the environment since I was 12 years old. Ever since I can remember, I had a strong passion for the natural world. This passion has not ceased. I went to the University of Minnesota to study Environmental Geography and Sustainability Studies. I graduated with a BA. Therefore, I am a recent graduate with an extensive environmental education. With 5+ years of dedicated experience in non-profit and customer service work, empathy and passion have taken me far in my professional career, which includes 5 months of working experience abroad. I volunteered for an environmental non-profit in London called GreenShoots. While there, I volunteered to obtain grants for our recent project, "Green Flow." This project is to help create biodegradable sanitary pads for women in Cambodia and throughout Southeast Asia. In Cambodia, a survey conducted by Fauna and Flora International (FFI) in Koh Rong and Koh Sdach islands, revealed that plastics from the region accounted for 80% of coastal pollution found on mainland beaches. We worked to create educational programs to combat this marine waste and additional pollution issues that are simply not taught in their nation. I had a focus on freshwater, ocean and marine conservation in college, and I feel as though my work through advocacy helped to get more people aware of the issues in the Mississippi River that flow through our campus. I was the president of our Environmental Student Association where we worked to clean up trash and combat the pollution from the East Phillips neighborhood that contributed the most to the pollution in the river. I completed my senior capstone project, "An Analysis of the Effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas in Preventing Coral Loss" which focused on the different types of coral restoration and the most energy-efficient ways to do so. I researched what routes are most sustainable for our oceans, and the ways to obtain the financial basis to do so. I am continuing my education at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, to obtain an MSc in Environmental Protection and Management, which focus on ocean conservation. This degree will help me to gain advanced skills in the processes that give rise to environmental degradation and the strategies to affect sustainable change. Unfortunately in the US, there are lots of climate deniers who are in high-level positions in our government. In the UK, this is not the case. As climate change has warmed the oceans greatly, the ocean has suffered terrible consequences. The pH levels are lower than they have been in a century, and marine animals and fish are struggling to survive. The impacts are worsening each year. The oceans are rising due to the ice caps melting, and the ocean becomes more acidic each year as the CO2 in the atmosphere rises. The importance of environmental policy work cannot be overstated. Environmental policy work is essential for the future of our planet and the well-being of humankind. With the increase in global population and industrialization, the demand for natural resources has increased dramatically, leading to unsustainable practices and environmental degradation. Environmental policies help to address these challenges by establishing regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable development practices, protect natural resources, and mitigate environmental impact. My studies overseas will help me to gain international connections and knowledge of the work that is being done in Europe, which will give me a necessary advantage that many others will not have when they step into their professional career. I plan to use my postgraduate education to protect our oceans and make sustainable changes in the US and beyond.

I have been an active advocate for the environment since I was 12 years old. Ever since I can remember, I had a strong passion for the natural world. This passion has not ceased. I went to the University of Minnesota to study Environmental Geography and Sustainability Studies. I graduated with a BA. Therefore, I am a recent graduate with an extensive environmental education. With 5+ years of dedicated experience in non-profit and customer service work, empathy and passion have taken me far in my professional career, which includes 5 months of working experience abroad. I worked for an environmental non-profit in London called GreenShoots. While there, I worked to obtain grants for our recent project, "Green Flow." This project is to help create biodegradable sanitary pads for women in Cambodia and throughout South East Asia. In Cambodia, a survey conducted by Fauna and Flora International (FFI) in Koh Rong and Koh Sdach islands, revealed that plastics from the region accounted for 80% of coastal pollution found on mainland beaches. We worked to create educational programs to combat this marine waste and additional pollution issues that are simply not taught in their nation. I had a focus on freshwater, ocean and marine conservation in college, and I feel as though my work through advocacy helped to get more people aware of the issues in the Mississippi River that flow through our campus. I was the president of our Environmental Student Association where we worked to clean up trash and combat the pollution from the East Phillips neighborhood that contributed the most to the pollution in the river. I completed my senior capstone project, "An Analysis of the Effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas in Preventing Coral Loss" which focused on the different types of coral restoration and the most energy-efficient ways to do so. I researched what routes are most sustainable for our oceans, and the ways to obtain the financial basis to do so. I am continuing my education at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, to obtain an MSc in Environmental Protection and Management, which focus on ocean conservation. This degree will help me to gain advanced skills in the processes that give rise to environmental degradation and the strategies to affect sustainable change. Unfortunately in the US, there are lots of climate deniers who are in high-level positions in our government. In the UK, this is not the case. As climate change has warmed the oceans greatly, the ocean has suffered terrible consequences. The pH levels are lower than they have been in a century, and marine animals and fish are struggling to survive. The impacts are worsening each year. The oceans are rising due to the ice caps melting, and the ocean becomes more acidic each year as the CO2 in the atmosphere rises. The importance of environmental policy work cannot be overstated. Environmental policy work is essential for the future of our planet and the well-being of humankind. With the increase in global population and industrialization, the demand for natural resources has increased dramatically, leading to unsustainable practices and environmental degradation. Environmental policies help to address these challenges by establishing regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable development practices, protect natural resources, and mitigate environmental impact. My studies overseas will help me to gain international connections and gain knowledge of the work that is being done in Europe, which will give me a necessary advantage that many others will not have when they step into their professional career. I plan to use my postgraduate education to protect our oceans and make sustainable changes in the US and beyond.

I have been an active advocate for the environment since I was 12 years old. Ever since I can remember, I had a strong passion for the natural world. This passion has not ceased. I went to the University of Minnesota to study Environmental Geography and Sustainability Studies. I graduated with a BA. Therefore, I am a recent graduate with an extensive environmental education. With 5+ years of dedicated experience in non-profit and customer service work, empathy and passion have taken me far in my professional career, which includes 5 months of working experience abroad. I worked for an environmental non-profit in London called GreenShoots. While there, I worked to obtain grants for our recent project, "Green Flow." This project is to help create biodegradable sanitary pads for women in Cambodia and throughout South East Asia. In Cambodia, a survey conducted by Fauna and Flora International (FFI) in Koh Rong and Koh Sdach islands, revealed that plastics from the region accounted for 80% of coastal pollution found on mainland beaches. We worked to create educational programs to combat this marine waste and additional pollution issues that are simply not taught in their nation. I had a focus on freshwater, ocean and marine conservation in college, and I feel as though my work through advocacy helped to get more people aware of the issues in the Mississippi River that flow through our campus. I was the president of our Environmental Student Association where we worked to clean up trash and combat the pollution from the East Phillips neighborhood that contributed the most to the pollution in the river. I completed my senior capstone project, "An Analysis of the Effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas in Preventing Coral Loss" which focused on the different types of coral restoration and the most energy-efficient ways to do so. I researched what routes are most sustainable for our oceans, and the ways to obtain the financial basis to do so. I am continuing my education at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, to obtain an MSc in Environmental Protection and Management, which focus on ocean conservation. This degree will help me to gain advanced skills in the processes that give rise to environmental degradation and the strategies to affect sustainable change. Unfortunately in the US, there are lots of climate deniers who are in high-level positions in our government. In the UK, this is not the case. As climate change has warmed the oceans greatly, the ocean has suffered terrible consequences. The pH levels are lower than they have been in a century, and marine animals and fish are struggling to survive. The impacts are worsening each year. The oceans are rising due to the ice caps melting, and the ocean becomes more acidic each year as the CO2 in the atmosphere rises. The importance of environmental policy work cannot be overstated. Environmental policy work is essential for the future of our planet and the well-being of humankind. With the increase in global population and industrialization, the demand for natural resources has increased dramatically, leading to unsustainable practices and environmental degradation. Environmental policies help to address these challenges by establishing regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable development practices, protect natural resources, and mitigate environmental impact. My studies overseas will help me to gain international connections and gain knowledge of the work that is being done in Europe, which will give me a necessary advantage that many others will not have when they step into their professional career. I plan to use my postgraduate education to protect our oceans and make sustainable changes in the US and beyond.

I have been an advocate for the environment since I was 12 years old. Ever since I can remember, I had a strong passion for the natural world. This passion has not ceased. I went to the University of Minnesota to study Environmental Geography and Sustainability Studies. I graduated with a BA. Therefore, I am a recent graduate with an extensive environmental education. With 5+ years of dedicated experience in non-profit and customer service work, empathy and passion have taken me far in my professional career, which includes 5 months of working experience abroad. I worked for an environmental non-profit in London called GreenShoots. While there, I worked to obtain grants for our recent project, "Green Flow." This project is to help create biodegradable sanitary pads for women in Cambodia and throughout South East Asia. The biggest threats and issues regarding the human relationship with the environment include agriculture, meat consumption, transportation, fast fashion, plastic pollution, fossil fuel use, and overconsumption as a whole. I had a focus on freshwater, ocean and marine conservation in college, and I feel as though my work through advocacy helped to get more people aware of the issues in the Mississippi River that flow through our campus. I am continuing my education at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. I have accepted my offer in the MSc Environmental Protection and Management program. This degree will help me to gain advanced skills in the processes that give rise to environmental degradation and the strategies to affect sustainable change. Unfortunately in the US, there are lots of climate deniers who are in high-level positions in our government. In the UK, this is not the case. The education that I will receive starting this fall at the University of Edinburgh will be extremely progressive and efficient toward my future goals. The main way in which I would encourage my family and friends to reduce their footprint is through their diet. Meat consumption takes approximately 1,847 gallons of water to produce 1 pound of beef that's enough water to fill 39 bathtubs to the top. I feel as though people's diet is an easy first step to lower one's footprint. This is also something I would hope to discuss throughout my future career of policy work. The importance of environmental policy work cannot be overstated. Environmental protection is essential for the future of our planet and the well-being of humankind. With the increase in global population and industrialization, the demand for natural resources has increased dramatically, leading to unsustainable practices and environmental degradation. Environmental policies help to address these challenges by establishing regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable development practices, protect natural resources, and mitigate environmental impacts. My studies at the University of Edinburgh will help me greatly to complete these tasks and goals.