Living sustainably is something I'm passionate about. It's not just a vague concept to me; it's a conscious choice. I decide to say yes, every day, to protect the environment and secure a better future for generations to come. As I dive into a career path focused on environmental policy, specifically sustainable energy, I aim to lead by example and inspire others to embrace sustainable practices in their unique way -- with enthusiasm. I truly believe that we can power our lives while keeping a clear conscience and making a positive impact on the planet without having to 'sacrifice' anything. One way I incorporate sustainability into my life is by being mindful of the things I buy. I've learned to resist the allure of the latest fads and instead prioritize products that genuinely benefit me and, when feasible, align with sustainable practices. By doing so, I actively steer clear of the fast fashion craze and the carbon footprint that comes with incessant door-to-door deliveries. It's not just about avoiding waste; it's about supporting businesses that prioritize sustainable production and distribution methods. Plus, by only bringing what I truly need into my life, I'm simultaneously decluttering and staying true to my values. Another valuable aspect of sustainable living that I've embraced is diversifying my diet to include fewer meat-based meals. I've come to realize that modern livestock production has a significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation. So, I consciously choose plant-based alternatives whenever they're available and make an effort to reduce my consumption of animal products from factory-farmed sources. This choice not only benefits the planet but also promotes healthier eating habits, fueling my body with God-given nutrients straight from the source. When it comes to my daily commute to the city, I've made it a habit to incorporate public transportation into my routine. I rely on Atlanta's MARTA system to get me to school and work. By hopping on board a train instead of driving, I not only reduce my carbon emissions but also vote with my dollar and time. The more people use public transportation, the more likely it is that investments will be made to improve these services. So, it's a small action that contributes to the development of more efficient and eco-friendly infrastructure. Plus, I get to enjoy a stress-free ride and avoid the hassle of finding on-campus parking in a city with constant construction and notoriously bad traffic. As I pursue my career in sustainable energy, my dedication to reducing my carbon footprint becomes even more meaningful. I strive to inspire and empower individuals to adopt sustainable practices in their own lives, making conscious choices that prioritize the health of our planet. But it doesn't stop there. I also aspire to contribute on a larger scale by developing sound policies that drive change and help transition to a more sustainable future. Reducing my carbon footprint is vital because it directly impacts the health and sustainability of our planet. Climate change, driven primarily by greenhouse gas emissions, poses significant threats to ecosystems, wildlife, and human populations worldwide. By actively working to minimize my environmental impact, I feel a sense of responsibility for the legacy I'll leave behind. And let's not forget that sustainable living isn't about sacrificing or giving up things we love—it's a lifestyle change that brings fulfillment and preserves the Earth for future generations.

If I could handpick one book for every person in the world to read, it would be "Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants" by Robin Wall Kimmerer. This book holds a special place in my heart as it beautifully intertwines indigenous wisdom, scientific insights, and a deep reverence for the natural world in a way anyone can understand. When you open the pages of "Braiding Sweetgrass," you embark on a transformative journey. Through her words, Kimmerer, a botanist and member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, invites you to see your physical surroundings through a new lens—one lens that embraces interconnectedness, reciprocity, and the profound teachings of the Earth itself. As you delve into the pages, you'll be captivated by Kimmerer's marvelous storytelling prowess. She gracefully imparts the concept of the "Honorable Harvest", guidelines for respectfully interacting with the natural world and acknowledging the reciprocal relationship between humans and the Earth. Kimmerer reminds us of the vital importance of showing gratitude first and always taking with respect and care for our planet in mind. Her wisdom nurtures a deep sense of stewardship for the Earth and all its inhabitants. Moreover, "Braiding Sweetgrass" dares to challenge the prevailing Western worldview that sees humans as separate from nature, urging us to recognize our inherent connection to the natural world. Kimmerer gently guides us towards a path of ecological consciousness, emphasizing the ever-urgent need for us to protect and preserve the Earth's precious biodiversity. This book resonates with me so profoundly because it speaks to our current environmental crises and the disconnection many feel from nature. While it exposes our sepration, it also offers a balm for the soul and serves as a call to action to rekindle our strained relationship with the Earth. By embracing the teachings of "Braiding Sweetgrass," everyone can foster a renewed appreciation for the Earth's beauty, develop a stronger sense of environmental responsibility, and cultivate a deeper understanding of indigenous wisdom. It has the power to inspire a global movement—a movement of healing, sustainability, and reverence for our shared home. We can also reap the benefits of more peaceful peer-to-peer relationships as well. So, again, I wholeheartedly recommend "Braiding Sweetgrass." Let its words seep into your soul, and may it guide you towards a future where humans and nature coexist harmoniously, ensuring a thriving planet for generations to come.

The dream version of my future self as an aspiring climate advocate is to be a pioneer in the movement, advocating for environmental policies that prioritize sustainability and equity, and leaving a positive and lasting impact on the world by contributing to the fight against climate change.

The environment had always been there for me, and it was time I showed up for it. As someone who grew up in and around Atlanta, GA, I was a self-described city slicker. Though I enjoyed the benefit of urban green spaces now and then, I had never truly appreciated the beauty of nature until I went to college in rural Virginia. It was there that I fell in love with the stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant ecosystems that surrounded me. As I took my first hike and steered my first paddleboard, I sparked a newfound love for the natural world. Here, I kick-started my thorough passion for the environment. When I was in a world of confusion, my passion for the environment grounded me. In my first year of college, I could not settle on a major. Though I initially had intentions of pursuing chemistry, I learned early on that my heart was not in the subject. In my desperate search to find a pursuit, my introductory environmental studies course combined natural sciences and social sciences in nearly perfect harmony. Since then, I have followed my heart to complete my undergraduate degree in Environmental Economics. Upon graduation, I have been advocating on behalf of the environment, creating content for public consumption, writing articles to find creative policy solutions to environmental issues throughout the United States, and developing content to bolster resilience among other climate advocates through a podcast focused on distributing climate stories. Realizing that I need more education to properly protect the environment to the best of my ability, I am going back to school to complete a Master’s degree. I believe that a sustainable environment is crucial for our well-being and the future of our society. Through the "Sustainable Energy and Environmental Management" Master’s program I am joining in the fall, I hope to deepen my understanding of the complex relationship between the environment, energy, and society. I am eager to learn about innovative technologies and policies that can help combat climate change, promote sustainability, and preserve our planet for future generations. I also realize that I cannot fight for the Earth on my own. To my friends and family, I say that reducing your carbon footprint can start with small steps that will improve your life instead of feeling like sacrifices. First, I suggest maximizing your wardrobe by swapping clothes with friends and family members. This is a great way to refresh your wardrobe while reducing textile waste, a worthy tackle against fast fashion. Next, this one is especially directed at my parents: save yourself time and consider opting for electronic bills, receipts, and documents whenever possible. Go paperless and reduce your paper waste. Finally, when time allows, cook from scratch. Cooking from scratch not only reduces your carbon footprint by reducing packaging waste, but it's also a fun way to try out new recipes and flavors. I am grateful for the kindness that the environment shows me each day, and I believe that it is my duty to protect it. I hope that you will consider me for this scholarship so that I can continue to work towards a more sustainable future for all.