Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hi, I’m Adriana! On campus, I chair Student Government’s Sustainability Committee and serve as a representative on the Sustainability Advisory Group. I am also a student ambassador for the Environmental Studies department. Back home in Boston, I enjoy going on long bike rides, thrift shopping, and taking lots of pictures of flowers. I try my best to live the greenest life that I can, but I have yet to give up ice cream!
What initially attracted you to NYU’s Environmental Studies/Animal Studies program? Why did you decide to pursue this degree?
What initially attracted me to the program was the huge variety in topics - from economics to governance to science - which is hard to find at other universities. I decided to pursue this degree because I believe climate change is the most pressing issue humanity has ever faced and I want to be a part of its solution.
What do you love most about being in the major or minor?
I would definitely say my peers! It is truly inspiring to be constantly surrounded by people who are so passionate about environmental issues. Every person comes to class with a unique perspective, which always makes for a compelling discussion, but as a group we are united by our concern for the planet and all of its living beings.
What is your most memorable moment while in the program and why?
It would probably have to be watching the project presentations in my Environmental Activism class where we each outlined a strategy for engaging an affected community in environmental activism. I found everyone’s proposals to be engaging and well informed - I was genuinely so impressed!
What was your favorite class?
My favorite class was Climate Change and Environmental Justice, which explored how socioeconomic and racial inequalities are exacerbated by climate change. This class is ultimately what convinced me to major in the ES department.
What do you hope to accomplish with your major or minor?
I hope to one day obtain a JD and practice environmental law. As an environmental attorney, I would advocate for the communities being disproportionately harmed by climate change, biodiversity loss, and other environmental problems.
How do you hope to combine your majors/or major and minor?
I hope to apply the skills and knowledge I gain through taking politics courses to my understanding of environmental policy. More specifically, I am interested in learning about how the political institutions in place make passing effective environmental laws on a large scale seemingly impossible and what can be done about this.
What is next for you? What do you plan to do after graduation?
I am currently on the pre-law track so I am planning on taking the LSAT and applying to law school during my senior year.
What advice do you have for prospective students?
It’s perfectly fine if you haven’t gotten everything figured out yet - there’s plenty of time to change your mind over and over again! I do want to say though that you will not be disappointed if you decide to major in environmental studies here at NYU. I believe that one of the best ways you can spend your time is by making the planet a safer and healthier place for everyone.