As we start back up with classes this fall, students in the Professional Science Master’s in Environmental Management and Sustainability program (MSEM) are looking forward to discovering what to focus their research on for the year as well as starting a new chapter in Austin!
We have a diverse group of students this year coming from different parts of the US. A number of students moved to Austin from other cities within Texas, many moved from the East Coast including states such as Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, Georgia, and we even have an exchange student from France learning about the American lifestyle as he completes his masters with the group!
One unique aspect about the program is the international experience we get during our second year. Studying abroad in Angers, France will give us the opportunity to learn a new language, study conservation methods and ecological management in a European country, and not to mention, graduate with a joint degree from St. Edward’s University and Université Catholique de l’Ouest!
Before leaving for France, we will be taking ecology, business management courses, as well as working on a year-long research project in teams. Many students already have a science foundation such as Biology, Environmental Sciences, or Animal Sciences and there are others with no science background such as International Affairs or Business. Whether you’re interested in resolving our world’s most threatening ecological issues or moving the needle forward in sustainable development, this program really gives us the creativity to explore the various aspects of sustainability and environmental conservation. Some research projects students are looking into include studying the carbon sequestration in the trees on campus, Gulf Coast restoration, green building, water quality and conservation, and the ways in which urban development and people on the environment impact our weather patterns and agriculture. Some students are looking into doing their research at the Wild Basin using some of the camera traps to monitor animal behavior.
Since most of us are from different parts of the states, we are also all looking forward to exploring the wonders Austin has to offer such as Austin City Limits and SXSW Eco. Coming from Atlanta, I’m particularly impressed with how progressive Austin is in the environmental field; with the City Council’s goal of Zero Waste by 2040, a no plastic bag city, and increasing efforts for citizens to be more conscience of water conservation in order to cope with the ongoing drought conditions. Austinites are definitely paving the way for a healthier, sustainable, and cleaner environment!
-Christine Lacayo
Sustainability Graduate Assistant