Major: Environmental Studies and Natural Resources
Year in School: Senior
Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska
Please describe your big idea in a few sentences.
My project, The Canopy, is an app and website designed to connect more people with environmental and sustainability-based groups and projects in their local area. The Canopy contains a database of these organizations in one convenient place to help citizens become more informed on what exists in their community. By accessing The Canopy, users will find local environmental and sustainability organizations, information, events, volunteer opportunities and more.
What impact do you want to have on the world?
I hope that in my lifetime I can help make positive change in the world that benefits people and our society in some way. In particular, I hope to continually find ways to help promote environmentalism and protect our natural places. In my youth, I found great comfort in being outdoors and I hope that the same comfort can be enjoyed by all of the generations who come after me.
How has the Change Maker scholarship and CASNR community helped you discover your passion and grow your skills?
When I first thought of my idea for The Canopy, it seemed like a difficult project that would be hard to implement. After discovering the Change Maker competition, I decided to submit my idea even though I wasn’t 100% certain how it would come to fruition. After being selected, I grew more confident in my project’s potential and have pushed myself, with the help of my advisors, to develop it in a way that I didn’t previously think was possible. Since the start of the academic year, I have learned a lot about website and app development, along with many other tools that I now know how to utilize for my project.
How has your mentor/mentors shaped your experience thus far?
I have had the privilege to work with two mentors through the Change Maker program at UNL, and they have been instrumental in assisting me with the development of this project. Together with their professional experience and help, we have outlined project goals, outcomes and other important details. Having never done this type of project before, they have been a crucial part in helping me get this project where I want it to be. I truly value their advice and feedback.
What advice would you have for someone who is not sure if they should apply/if their idea is big enough?
Even the smallest idea can grow into something big and have the potential to impact the world in a positive way. If you have an idea you are passionate about, get informed, make goals and don’t be afraid to speak up about it because it could lead to the necessary change that helps tackle the world’s biggest issues.