As a second-generation immigrant, my journey through education has been shaped by the unique experiences and challenges that come with growing up in a family navigating life in a new country. My parents’ pursuit of a better future for our family instilled in me the value of hard work and perseverance. However, entering higher education as an outsider to the system has also brought its share of concerns and hopes, all of which are deeply connected to my identity and experience. One of the most significant impacts of being a second-generation immigrant is the pressure to succeed. My parents made sacrifices so I could have educational opportunities they didn’t, and with that comes the responsibility to make the most of every opportunity. I often feel the weight of not just my own aspirations but also my family’s hopes for me. This pressure can be both motivating and daunting. On one hand, it pushes me to excel academically and strive for success in ways that will make my family proud. On the other hand, it can be overwhelming, particularly when I face setbacks or moments of self-doubt. As I am in a graduate program at Columbia University, I also feel a sense of unfamiliarity with the system. My parents, though incredibly supportive, did not navigate the American higher education system themselves, so there are many aspects of this journey that I have had to figure out on my own. From understanding how to apply for financial aid to navigating the complexities of standardized testing, I’ve had to be resourceful and seek guidance from mentors and peers. This outsider perspective has made me more independent, but it also creates a sense of isolation at times, as I don’t have the same familial support systems that some of my peers might. Despite these challenges, my experience as a second-generation immigrant has given me a unique sense of resilience and determination. I’ve learned to embrace my identity and use it as a source of strength. My background has also fueled my desire to give back to my community. I am acutely aware of the barriers that many immigrants and children of immigrants face in accessing higher education. As I pursue my degree in Earth and Environmental Engineering, I am committed to using my skills to address sustainability challenges while also advocating for educational equity. I hope to mentor and support other students who come from similar backgrounds, helping them navigate the complexities of higher education and encouraging them to pursue their own goals. Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunities higher education will provide, but I am also concerned about the systemic barriers that still exist. As an outsider to the system, I worry about issues of affordability, representation, and access. These concerns are not just personal—they reflect broader challenges faced by many students from underrepresented backgrounds. I hope that through my work, both in engineering and in advocating for educational access, I can contribute to breaking down these barriers for future generations. In conclusion, being a second-generation immigrant has deeply shaped my educational journey and future aspirations. It has instilled in me a strong sense of purpose and resilience while also highlighting the systemic challenges that students like me often face. As I enter higher education, I am committed to using my experiences to make a positive impact, both in my field of study and within my community.

My unique contribution to making mental health care affordable and accessible lies in combining my background in STEM with my personal experience of mental health challenges. As an Earth and Environmental Engineering student, I understand the importance of sustainable, scalable solutions. I envision leveraging technology to create affordable, community-based mental health platforms that integrate teletherapy, AI-driven support systems, and peer networks. By harnessing the power of data analytics, I would work to design systems that offer personalized, real-time mental health interventions at low cost. Additionally, I would advocate for policy changes to increase funding for mental health services in underserved communities, ensuring that everyone, regardless of income, can access care. My goal is to make mental health resources as available and commonplace as public libraries—destigmatized, widespread, and community-centered. With these efforts, I hope to contribute to a world where mental health care is accessible for all who need it.

As a woman pursuing a career in STEM, my journey has been driven by both a deep curiosity about the world and a desire to solve complex problems that have real-world impacts. My decision to study Earth and Environmental Engineering was fueled by a passion for sustainability and a commitment to finding innovative solutions to environmental challenges. Growing up, I was fascinated by the sciences, particularly how things worked and how they connected to the natural world. Over time, I realized that STEM was not only a field where I could explore these interests but also where I could make a meaningful difference. I pursued STEM because I believe that science and technology are at the heart of creating a sustainable future. The challenges we face today—ranging from climate change to pollution and resource depletion—require multidisciplinary solutions rooted in engineering, environmental science, and technology. I was drawn to Earth and Environmental Engineering because it allowed me to combine my technical skills with my passion for environmental advocacy. In this field, I can work on projects that have a direct impact on improving the health of our planet, whether through renewable energy development, waste reduction, or sustainable infrastructure. As a woman in STEM, I hope to make a difference by challenging the gender imbalance that still exists in many scientific and engineering fields. I’ve seen firsthand how underrepresented women are in some STEM areas, and I want to be part of changing that narrative. By excelling in my field, I hope to inspire other young women to pursue STEM careers, showing them that their contributions are valuable and needed. Representation matters, and having more women in STEM can foster diverse perspectives that lead to more innovative and comprehensive solutions. Additionally, I aim to mentor and support other women and underrepresented groups in STEM, helping to build a more inclusive community. I understand the challenges that come with navigating a male-dominated field, from feeling outnumbered in classrooms and workspaces to overcoming implicit biases. By advocating for greater inclusivity and equity in STEM, I hope to create an environment where future generations of women feel supported and empowered to pursue their passions. Ultimately, I see my role in STEM as not only contributing to technological and environmental advancements but also helping to pave the way for more women to succeed in these fields. By being part of this change, I hope to make a lasting impact on both the scientific community and the world at large.

Living sustainably has become an essential part of my daily life, driven by the awareness of how individual actions impact the planet. As an Earth and Environmental Engineering student, I’ve learned how urgent it is to adopt eco-friendly practices to reduce our carbon footprint. From choosing public transportation to minimizing waste and conserving energy, I make intentional decisions each day to lessen my environmental impact. These actions are rooted in the belief that reducing our carbon footprint is crucial for protecting the environment, preserving natural resources, and addressing the climate crisis. One of the most significant ways I reduce my carbon footprint is through my transportation choices. Whenever possible, I opt for walking and using public transportation instead of driving. In a world where vehicle emissions are a leading contributor to greenhouse gases, reducing reliance on cars is a simple yet effective way to cut back on personal emissions. Not only do these alternative forms of transportation reduce my carbon footprint, but they also promote a healthier lifestyle. Walking gives me the opportunity to engage with my surroundings in a more meaningful way, while public transportation helps me contribute to the collective reduction of traffic and pollution in urban areas. Another intentional choice I make is reducing waste, especially plastic waste, in my daily life. I’ve made it a habit to carry reusable bags, water bottles, and containers, which drastically reduces the amount of single-use plastic I consume. By making small changes, such as bringing my own coffee cup to cafes or refusing plastic straws, I minimize the amount of waste I contribute to landfills and oceans. This is important because plastic pollution not only harms wildlife but also releases greenhouse gases as it breaks down, further contributing to climate change. My goal is to move toward a zero-waste lifestyle, where I can contribute as little waste as possible to the environment. I also make intentional food choices to live more sustainably. Eating a plant-based diet is one way I reduce my environmental impact, as animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water consumption. By choosing to eat more plant-based meals, I reduce the demand for resources needed to produce meat and dairy, while also supporting a more sustainable food system. Even small changes, like participating in Meatless Mondays or buying locally produced food, help lower my carbon footprint. I believe that reducing our carbon footprint is vital for several reasons. First, it helps mitigate climate change, which is one of the most pressing challenges facing humanity. By making sustainable choices, we can collectively reduce the amount of carbon dioxide and other harmful gases released into the atmosphere, slowing the warming of our planet. Second, reducing our environmental impact is important for preserving natural ecosystems and biodiversity. The fewer resources we consume, the less pressure we put on the earth’s finite resources. Lastly, living sustainably sets an example for others and encourages positive change in our communities. When individuals take responsibility for their environmental impact, they inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that can lead to broader societal changes. In conclusion, living sustainably requires making intentional choices every day. From reducing waste to conserving energy and choosing eco-friendly transportation, these decisions are crucial for lowering my carbon footprint and protecting the environment. By committing to sustainable living, I am doing my part to help address climate change and preserve the planet for future generations.

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being that profoundly influences both our daily performance and our relationships with loved ones. When mental health is compromised, even small, everyday tasks can feel overwhelming, and maintaining motivation becomes a constant struggle. Speaking from personal experience, I find that managing my mental health is a daily challenge. There are days when I lack the strength and motivation to complete the simplest tasks, and the weight of these struggles impacts my ability to be fully present in my relationships. However, through conscious efforts to care for my mental well-being, I’ve found ways to cope and maintain balance, despite the challenges. One of the reasons mental health is so important is because it directly affects how we perform in various aspects of our lives. Whether it’s school, work, or personal endeavors, our mental state plays a significant role in how we approach and complete tasks. For me, when my mental health is low, even routine activities such as making breakfast or cleaning can feel like monumental hurdles. It’s difficult to find motivation, and this lack of energy often leads to frustration and self-doubt. Over time, if left unaddressed, this struggle can snowball, affecting productivity and overall satisfaction with life. Additionally, mental health affects our relationships with those we care about. When I feel mentally drained, it becomes harder to connect with others or invest in relationships. I often feel guilty when I’m unable to be the friend or family member I want to be, simply because I don’t have the emotional bandwidth. Mental health challenges can cause misunderstandings, feelings of isolation, and strain in relationships, as we may withdraw or be unable to express what we’re going through. This is why maintaining mental health is not only vital for individual well-being but also for fostering healthy, supportive relationships. Despite the difficulties I face with my mental health, I have found certain strategies that help me maintain balance and promote wellness. One of the most important aspects of my self-care routine is daily exercise. Physical activity not only boosts my mood but also gives me a sense of accomplishment, even on days when I struggle with motivation. Whether it’s a short walk or a more intense workout, moving my body helps alleviate some of the mental fog that can accumulate. Another key aspect of my mental wellness routine is staying connected with loved ones, even when I’m far away from them. I make it a point to call or message family and friends regularly. These conversations, whether brief or long, help me feel supported and remind me that I’m not alone in my struggles. I also prioritize eating well-balanced meals as part of my mental health care. Nutrition has a significant impact on how we feel mentally and physically, and I notice that when I eat nourishing foods, I feel more energized and capable of handling daily stressors. Taking the time to plan meals and focus on what I’m putting into my body has become an essential part of how I manage my mental well-being. In conclusion, mental health is vitally important because it affects both how we function in daily life and how we relate to the people around us. Although I struggle with mental health on a daily basis, I’ve learned that maintaining balance through exercise, staying connected with loved ones, and eating well can make a significant difference in how I manage these challenges. While it’s not always easy, caring for mental health is an ongoing journey that requires effort, self-compassion, and patience.

Selflessness is often characterized by a willingness to put others' needs ahead of one’s own, and my experience as a volunteer tutor at KidWorks is a reflection of that value. For six months, I had the privilege of tutoring elementary school students from underrepresented communities in Santa Ana, California. As part of KidWorks’ educational initiative, I helped students build their math and STEM skills, providing not only academic support but also encouragement and guidance. Through this experience, I learned that being selfless goes beyond giving time, it’s about investing in the potential of others. At KidWorks, the students I tutored came from communities that faced significant challenges, including limited access to quality education and resources. Many of the children struggled with foundational concepts in math and STEM subjects, which are critical for their future academic success. Recognizing this, I dedicated myself to ensuring that each student received the personalized attention they needed. Whether it was staying late to review difficult math problems or finding creative ways to explain science concepts, my priority was always the students’ progress. In these moments, I understood that selflessness is about offering your skills without expectation of recognition or reward. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my time at KidWorks was witnessing the students’ growth. Over time, I saw students who once struggled with math begin to tackle more complex problems with confidence. It wasn’t just about helping them improve their grades—it was about building their confidence and showing them that they were capable of mastering challenging subjects. This transformation, for me, was the true reward of volunteering. Their success reaffirmed my belief in the importance of equity in education and motivated me to continue finding ways to support underrepresented communities. Tutoring also allowed me to form meaningful relationships with the students, who often looked to me not just as a tutor, but as a mentor. Many of them came from families with limited academic support at home, and I realized that my role extended beyond academics. I sought to be a positive influence, offering advice on how to navigate challenges and encouraging them to dream big. In doing so, I learned that selflessness is not just about solving immediate problems but helping others envision and work toward a brighter future. In conclusion, my volunteer experience at KidWorks reinforced my belief in the power of selflessness. By dedicating my time and skills to help underserved students, I was able to make a tangible difference in their lives, while also gaining a deeper understanding of the impact that one person can have on a community.

An up-stander is someone who actively takes a stand against injustice and steps forward to make a difference, rather than passively witnessing challenges or inequalities. In our world today, where environmental issues and social inequalities continue to grow, there is a need for more up-standers—people who will not only raise their voices but also take meaningful action. As a student in Earth and Environmental Engineering at Columbia University, I have the tools and platform to be an up-stander, particularly in the realm of environmental sustainability. By leveraging my knowledge, skills, and voice, I can contribute to building up my community in powerful and meaningful ways. The first step toward being an up-stander is acknowledging the issues that need attention and being willing to act. As someone deeply engaged in sustainability, science, and engineering, I have witnessed the growing impact of climate change, pollution, and resource depletion. While these are global issues, they also manifest in local communities, making it important to address them on both levels. I can use my voice to raise awareness of these critical issues within my community, helping others understand the importance of sustainable practices and the role each of us can play in creating a healthier environment. Advocacy begins with education, and I see myself as both a student and an educator in this regard—continually learning while sharing my knowledge with others. One of the ways I can contribute is through environmental advocacy. As I continue my studies, I can lead initiatives within my university or local community that focus on reducing our collective carbon footprint, promoting renewable energy, or addressing waste management. I also studied at Chapman University, in which I was involved as Vice President of the Mission Environment Club. We brought a lot of guest speakers to educate our club members on environmental justice initiatives and did community activities such as beach cleanups and farmers market outings. Additionally, we frequently partner up with local environmental justice organizations and volunteer with their community projects. Finally, I am committed to fostering future leaders in the field of environmental engineering and sustainability. I believe that mentoring younger students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM, is one of the most effective ways to build up my community. As an Ethiopian-American whose parents immigrated to the States, I know how challenging it is for other first-generation students to get through college. By helping to guide and support future engineers, scientists, and activists, I can contribute to creating a pipeline of talent that will continue to address environmental challenges long after I have finished my studies. This work is especially meaningful to me because it builds individual capacity and strengthens the entire community’s resilience and capacity to innovate. In conclusion, being an up-stander requires ongoing commitment, action, and a belief in the power of individual and collective change. I aim to use my voice and skills to lead, educate, advocate, and mentor, making both small and large impacts in my community. Through environmental advocacy, local involvement, and mentorship, I will stand up for sustainability, equity, and justice, and help to build a future that benefits everyone.

In the life of my dreams, I wake up each morning to the sound of waves hitting the shore. My beachfront home blends modern sustainability and natural elements, with large windows bringing in the natural morning light. My future career is thriving, driven by my passion for sustainable technology and environmental innovation. I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in Earth and Environmental Engineering with a concentration on Water Resources and Climate Risks from Columbia University. After graduating in December 2025, I hope to land a role at a consulting firm in which I can move up the corporate ladder over time. In that role, I spearhead projects addressing the pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century, including renewable energy solutions and water conservation technologies. I regularly collaborate with global organizations, governments, and private companies to create practical solutions that make real-world impacts. Environmental justice is crucial to me. I am passionate about preserving the natural environment while upholding intersectional environmentalism. As an African-American woman who has faced discrimination in school, equity and opportunity are very important to me. My ultimate goal as an environmental engineer is to help provide all people with access to breathable air, clean water, and sustainable transportation methods. A key part of my work involves research leading a team of brilliant minds who share my vision for a cleaner, greener future. I frequently present my findings at international conferences, inspiring others to take action. Every day, I find immense fulfillment in knowing that my efforts contribute to a healthier planet, shape policies, and influence industries to prioritize sustainability. Beyond professional achievements, I am also connected with my community and the world around me. I am actively involved in initiatives that educate the next generation about environmental stewardship. Whether it's speaking at universities, mentoring young scientists, or organizing environmental campaigns, I am a powerful advocate for change. I would like to start a nonprofit that focuses on providing resources and education to communities most affected by climate change, empowering them to take control of their futures. My lifestyle mirrors my personal values. Sustainable living is second nature to me, with my personal choices reflecting my commitment to the environment. Whether it's having a home garden, using clean energy to power my home, or traveling in a way that minimizes my carbon footprint, I've mastered the balance between enjoying life and protecting the planet. Traveling the globe is a large part of my dream life, as I’ve always been curious about other parts of the world. I want to explore diverse ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest to the glaciers of Iceland, not just as a traveler but as a scientist and environmental advocate. My travels inspire new ideas for my work, and I often collaborate with local communities on sustainable development projects. Despite a demanding career, I’ve found balance. I enjoy meaningful relationships with friends, family, and a partner who shares my values. Together, we create a life filled with purpose, adventure, and love. I have the freedom to pursue my passions and the satisfaction of knowing that my work leaves a lasting impact on the world. In this dream life, I am at peace with you, confident that I’m contributing to something greater. Every day is a step toward a future where human progress and environmental preservation are not at odds, but deeply intertwined. And in this world, I’m not just surviving—I am thriving.

I am a 22-year-old graduate student at Columbia University pursuing a Master of Science in Earth and Environmental Engineering. I recently graduated from Chapman University with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Policy, where I was involved in the Mission Environment club as Vice President. My passion is to help provide all people with access to breathable air, clean water, and sustainable transportation methods. I am also passionate about intersectional environmentalism. As an African-American woman who has faced discrimination in school, equity and social justice issues are very important to me. My passion sparked during a project in my high school class, AP Environmental Science. The project was to carry around your trash in a bag for one week. At the end of the week, we unveiled how much waste we produced and I was disgusted by how many unnecessary styrofoam and plastic items I used. From that point on, I vowed to stop using wasteful items, like plastic cups, straws, and bags, and switch to reusable alternatives. I also educated my parents about plastic's harmful impact on the environment and convinced them to follow my switch. We have adopted a collaborative approach to sustainability by actively holding each other accountable for our environmental impact, particularly focusing on our usage of plastic and styrofoam. This practice has become an integral part of our daily lives, fostering a shared sense of responsibility and commitment to reducing waste. We start by setting clear, collective goals for minimizing single-use plastics and styrofoam products. For instance, we discuss and establish limits on the number of plastic bags or cups we can use each week, and we encourage the use of reusable alternatives like cloth bags, metal straws, and glass containers. To ensure we stay on track, we regularly check in with one another about our progress, discussing any challenges we faced and brainstorming solutions together. This system of mutual oversight helps to keep everyone accountable of their choices and reinforces the importance of our collective commitment. We’ve also integrated small, informal “accountability sessions” where we review our weekly habits, share insights on how we’re reducing plastic waste, and celebrate our successes, however small they may be. These discussions are not about criticism but rather about supporting each other and finding ways to improve. By turning sustainability into a shared family effort, we not only hold each other accountable but also create an environment of encouragement and positive reinforcement. This approach has led to increased awareness and more deliberate choices, helping us all to internalize sustainable practices more deeply. Our commitment to monitoring and reducing plastic and styrofoam usage has fostered a greater sense of unity and purpose, making sustainability a natural and integrated part of our family. Our accountability circle, which started during my senior year of high school, has kept me on track even when I moved away for college. It also reinforced my passion for environmental issues when classes are challenging. This sense of accountability made me a successful student at Chapman University, leading me to where I am now at Columbia University.

As I dragged my own trash bag around the school hallways, I realized I was also carrying guilt and shame about how much waste I contributed to landfills. In AP Environmental Science class in high school, I did a project in which I had to dispose of my waste in a personal trash bag for a week and always carry it with me. At the end of the week, I unveiled the contents and was disgusted by how much trash I produced. This class project changed my perspective of the environment and sparked a deep passion for saving our planet. From that moment, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career related to environmental science. I took this passion with me to Chapman University, where I gained an interdisciplinary education in Environmental Science and Policy and engaged in several enriching opportunities. After graduating, I decided to pursue higher education. I will be attending Columbia University in Fall 2024 for a Master’s in Earth and Environmental Engineering. After finish my degree, I want to engineer structures that provide clean water to places in need across the globe. I am passionate about working with local communities and researching environmental justice. As an Ethiopian-American, I strive to better the environmental conditions in my home country. Many Ethiopians in poverty face terrible pollution and other extremes, which I saw when I visited in 2018. Clean water is essential to human existence. My goal is to make sure that my people, along with the whole world, has equitable access to clean drinking water.

Traveling outside of your home country, or even hometown, opens your eyes to the rest of the world. Traveling results in personal growth by stepping outside of your comfort zone and embracing new cultures and experiences. Venturing into a new country can be daunting, and sometimes results in difficult and stressful encounters where you feel like an outsider. Although these are uncomfortable situations, this is where you grow the most. I have felt overwhelmed several times while traveling, but overcoming the challenge is satisfying. For example, I studied abroad in Athens, Greece for 5 months during college. When I first moved there, I was struggling to learn the metro system and adapt to the overall way of life. I remember being devastated when I arrived to the grocery store on Sunday only to find out most stores are closed on Sundays in Greece. I went home frustrated and starving. However, over the course of that semester, I became increasingly more comfortable with living there. By the end of it, I didn’t need Google maps anymore and strolled the streets like a local. While I was living in Greece, I had the wonderful opportunity to travel to nearby countries, including Italy, Austria, Cyprus, Israel, Germany, Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Spain, and England. During my lifetime, I have also traveled to Mexico, Costa Rica, Thailand, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Tanzania, Morocco, Portugal, and Sweden. I love traveling and the awareness that it brings. Traveling leads to personal growth by exposing individuals to new cultures, perspectives, and challenges. It fosters adaptability, empathy, and independence, pushing people out of comfort zones to learn and appreciate diversity. Encountering unfamiliar situations encourages self-discovery and broadens understanding of the world, catalyzing profound personal development unlike any other experience. Personally, I also love seeing the beauty and meaning behind traditions of the countries I’ve visited. Being a global citizen connects you to the rest of the world and displays that all of us are human, no matter the ethnicity or religion. Each of my journeys has led to personal growth and development. I am looking forward to growing even more in the future.

My passion for the environment stems from my AP Environmental Science class in high school, in which I learned about the urgency of climate change and how I can make a difference. Specifically, we did a project about how much trash we produced in one week by carrying around a trash bag. At the end of the week, I was disgusted by how much waste I produced and how much of that could turn into pollution. Protecting our oceans is crucial for sustaining the planet’s health and our own health as well. Oceans cover over 70% of the Earth's surface and are vital to life, providing more than half of the oxygen we breathe, absorbing carbon dioxide, and regulating the climate. They are home to diverse ecosystems that support countless species, many of which are integral to global food webs and human economies. Healthy oceans contribute to coastal protection, recreation, and tourism, all with significant socio-economic benefits. This past May, I graduated from Chapman University with a B.S. in Environmental Science and Policy. Starting this fall, I am furthering my education and pursuing a M.S. in Earth and Environmental Engineering at Columbia University. I am excited to learn more about environmental topics and fuel my passion for creating sustainable structures as an environmental engineer. My Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science and Policy provides a thorough understanding of the ocean's natural systems and the current policy that protects them. With my Master's degree in Earth and Environmental Engineering, I am choosing a concentration in Water Resources and Climate Risks. During my undergraduate time, I was involved in two research experiences focusing on drought and water resources, which I would like to expand on. I plan on using my Master's degree to engineer sustainable structures that suck the plastic out of our oceans. Unfortunately, our oceans face pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction, and other climate change threats. Environmental engineers play a critical role in mitigating these threats. They design systems to reduce pollution from industrial, agricultural, and urban sources, ensuring that harmful substances do not enter marine environments. They develop sustainable fisheries management practices and innovate aquaculture systems to alleviate pressure on wild fish populations. Environmental engineers also contribute to habitat restoration projects, such as coral reef and mangrove restoration, which enhance biodiversity and protect coastlines. Additionally, I could work on cutting-edge technologies for climate change mitigation and adaptation, such as carbon capture and renewable energy solutions. By integrating scientific knowledge with practical solutions, I can help safeguard our oceans for future generations as an environmental engineer.