Undergraduate Graduation!
Standing next to the University of South Florida's School of Geosciences.
Life update. One word, graduation! December marks the conclusion of my undergraduate experience from the University of South Florida! I graduated on Friday, December 13, 2024. My ceremony location was held at the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida. My undergraduate degree was a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Environmental Science & Policy with a concentration in Environmental Science.
One of the perks to a fall graduation is no humidity in Florida. I call that a win!
Image: Final picture by the University of South Florida's entrance.
Despite starting my undergraduate journey many moons ago, I still reflect on my humble beginnings. To this day, community college was the BEST financial decision I have ever made. I started my higher education journey at Pasco-Hernando State College for my Associates of Arts (A.A.). Afterwards, I spent a year attending St. Petersburg College to earn math and science credits as a part-time student. Next, that Covid-19... This was around the same time I transferred to the University of South Florida remotely. Not a typical start to the semester, eh? So, I continued my studies while taking online courses on Microsoft Teams and Zoom. Oddly enough, I learned to appreciate the flexibility of remote classes. I participated in a virtual work-development program called L'SPACE Academy. L'SPACE refers as the Lucy Student Pipeline Accelerator & Competency Enabler. The academy allowed participants to learn about space-focused mission concepts while collaborating with team members. Since then, I wanted to replicate that experience by becoming a co-founder to the Entomology Society (ESSF) at USF student-led organization. The main goal of entomology society was to encourage an environment for members to share their enthusiasm for insects, nature, and interdisciplinary studies. My favorite memories were bug hikes hosted with Entomology Society at USF. Entomology members were able to visit Lettuce Lake Park, USF Botanical Gardens, and many other nature sites. My final task as an undergraduate student was interning at the Sustainable Living Project. I learned green urban farming methods and maintained plant pathways.
I will continue my love for nature within the higher education environment.