The summer after my second year of undergrad, I had the opportunity to participate in a research internship through a program at the University of New Hampshire (UNH). This program focused on carbon transport in melting permafrost in Arctic regions. As part of this internship, I spent a month abroad in Northern Sweden as a member of the field research team. This hands-on experience in a wet, boggy environment allowed me to reconnect with my love for the outdoors and nature while deepening my understanding of what it means to be an environmental scientist.
During this time, I formed strong connections with peers and researchers from across the U.S. and around the world. Our research focused on methane emissions from Arctic peatlands and their contributions to the total methane and greenhouse gas budget. Witnessing the tangible impacts of climate change was both eye-opening and humbling, as I observed areas once dominated by permafrost transforming into wetlands each summer season.
Following this incredible experience, I had the privilege of presenting my research at the American Geophysical Union (AGU) conference in Washington, D.C. This event brought together thousands of scientists from diverse fields to share their work. In addition to presenting my findings, I participated in professional development opportunities and networked with individuals from organizations and companies that could help further my career.
