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Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability
What motivated you to study your degree?
I experience a common concern among many young people in my generation, which is climate change anxiety. We find ourselves navigating through unprecedented times marked by extreme weather events, extinction of species and the growing displacement of communities all because of climate change. Understanding the urgency of the situation, I recognised it was important to pursue a degree that aligned with my core values. With the BSENS degree I knew it would provide me with the skills and knowledge needed to bring real and meaningful change into the world.
What do you enjoy most about your degree?
The BSENS degree recognises the interconnectedness and complexities of climate change and sustainability. It provides the opportunity to explore various disciplines and use your learnings to create actionable change. My major is in sustainable enterprise and while conventionally business and sustainability are not typically associated, I believe that change at the business level will bring the fastest and most tangible solutions to climate change issues the planet is currently grappling with.
What are some key skills your degree helped you develop, and why are they important?
I have learnt how to conduct in depth stakeholder analyses which helps me apply different lenses to issues and their solutions. I’ve also built an appreciation for differing perspectives, which helps me connect with people who hold different views and create safe spaces to collaborate. Lastly, being able to assess sources for accuracy, legitimacy, and applicability is a very important skill in the age of unlimited access to information.
What is your favourite thing about studying at UC?
There’s a reason that everyone mentions the student clubs community. I have made so many great friends and created meaningful connections by becoming a clubs exec. Being involved in clubs has opened so many extra doors that I would have never known were there otherwise.
Have you faced any challenges during your study and, if so, how did you overcome them?
Work-life balance struggles are something many people can relate to. Trying to manage working, studying, and enjoying the student life can sometimes become overwhelming, especially around exam times. It’s simple but adding all your assessments into your calendar at the start of the semester can help with the balancing act. Also make sure you check in on yourself and your friends!
Do you have any standout experiences from your studies?
As part of the BSEnS, we do multiple field trips where we visit a lot of different community groups and speak with individuals that are incorporating sustainability into their initiatives. It is always a really encouraging opportunity to see people who are using their passion to create change in their communities.
What are your career goals post-study?
Right now I am really passionate about uplifting youth voices in the climate crisis and bringing these diverse perspectives into the conversation. Whether that will be through policy and advocacy or in the business sector I will continue to ensure my passion for sustainable change will be bought to the table in whatever I do.
Have you taken part in any internships or practical experiences at UC?
A compulsory part of the BSEnS degree is taking a PACE course, which is an internship-focused paper. Having the opportunity to work in my future field as a student was an invaluable experience, and learning the ins and the outs of the industry helped steer me toward a clearer career path. This opportunity provided me with a great network and practical skills to add to my CV.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I love to surf and ski, which helps me foster a deeper connection with the environment and develop a greater appreciation for what it can provide. That’s what I love about UC, you’re close to both the mountains and the sea, so there’s always opportunity for adventures close to home.
Do you have any advice for others considering studying the BSEnS?
If you have a passion for making tangible change in social and environmental spheres, then the BSEnS degree will only further ignite it. It is normal to feel disheartened at times with the climate crisis. However, rather than be overwhelmed with the complexity of issues we’re trying to tackle, the BSEnS helps you appreciate how their interconnected nature can be an asset. If you want to constantly be inspired to this degree is for you.
