Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Katie Eng and I am a senior majoring in Environmental Studies, with a minor in Animal Studies on the BA-MA track for Animal Studies. Some of my favorite times at NYU have been studying abroad at NYU Sydney, being involved on campus as part of Jumpstart, Phi Alpha Delta, and Earth Matters, and interning at The River Project and NY Environmental Law and Justice Project.
What initially attracted you to NYU’s Environmental Studies/Animal Studies program? Why did you decide to pursue this degree?
Growing up on Long Island, I always wanted to attend school in NYC, and chose NYU’s Environmental Studies/Animal Studies program because of its interdisciplinary approach to issues, research-focused staff, and study abroad opportunities. I decided to pursue this degree because I had a general interest in the environment and animals, but I was unsure if I wanted to focus more on science or policy in my professional career. This program let me take classes in both areas of study, and ultimately led me to law.
What do you love most about being in the major or minor?
I love the unique courses, small class sizes, and department events. The program is distinct because it has so many courses focused on climate change, animal welfare, industrial agriculture, and their solutions. What is your most memorable moment while in the program and why? My most memorable moments in the program were the dinners with Prof. Wolfson and our guest speakers for the “Animals and Public Policy” course. It was great to talk to people in the field outside of a classroom setting and hear their professional advice. Plus, I learned more about my peers and their interests all while eating free food!
What was your favorite class?
This is a tough question, but my favorite class would probably be a cross-listed class with Gallatin called “Think Big: Global Issues and Ecological Solutions.” It was a fun departure from what I usually study as it focused on green design and architecture. Every week we had to imagine solutions to seemingly impossible global problems and present them to the class, culminating in a group final project where we made prototypes of our designs.
What do you hope to accomplish with your major or minor? How do you hope to combine your majors/or major and minor?
I hope to go into the law field and work at the intersection of environmental and animal protection issues, focusing on problems like reforming (or dismantling) industrial animal agriculture and fishing.
What is next for you? What do you plan to do after graduation?
After graduation, I will be at NYU for an extra year finishing the Animal Studies MA, and then I will (hopefully) be attending law school. I also hope to find a part-time paralegal or legal assistant position for this upcoming year, and maybe continue as a research assistant while pursuing my Masters!
What advice do you have for prospective students?
My advice for prospective students is simply to become involved, attend events, and take advantage of every opportunity. Also, don’t be scared to ask for help, guidance, and advice from professors because they are amazing resources and genuinely care about students.