Participating in the Drexel in England study abroad program at the University of Leeds presents a unique opportunity for me to grow as an environmental engineer while actively contributing to sustainable and responsible travel. I view travel not only as a way to gain academic and professional knowledge, but also as a responsibility, especially in the context of the global climate crisis. My commitment to sustainability shapes how I prepare for and plan to engage in my international experience.
My career goals as an environmental engineer are directly tied to the principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). During my time abroad, I intend to continue promoting sustainability through my academic work, personal habits, and engagement with local communities. At Leeds, I plan to study water, air, and waste management systems in depth, analyzing how the UK approaches climate resilience in comparison to the U.S. This supports my long-term goal of developing innovative and adaptable solutions for climate change mitigation.
Sustainable travel begins with conscious choices. For my international placement, I have committed to minimizing my carbon footprint by using public transportation, walking, or biking when possible, and reducing single-use plastics and unnecessary consumption. I also intend to support local, eco-conscious businesses and learn more about the UK’s circular economy initiatives. These everyday decisions, while small, align with larger sustainability goals and demonstrate how individuals can actively reduce environmental impact during global travel.
My current co-op experience with the Philadelphia Water Department has equipped me with knowledge in water infrastructure planning and green design principles. I intend to build on this foundation by engaging with Leeds’ interdisciplinary research in climate change, gaining a broader understanding of how different countries apply engineering innovations to sustainability. This aligns with the SDG framework by encouraging cross-cultural learning, resilience-building, and sustainable industry practices.
My prior experience with cultural exchange, such as my high school exchange program in Germany, taught me the value of listening, adaptability, and building relationships that transcend borders. At Leeds, I hope to foster community by collaborating with international peers on group projects and sustainability initiatives. I believe addressing global environmental challenges requires inclusive, cross-disciplinary teamwork—a value I carry from both my technical theatre work and engineering design collaborations.
Overall, my intention is to approach this opportunity not just as a student, but as a steward of sustainability. I am deeply committed to reducing my environmental impact while abroad, engaging meaningfully with the University of Leeds’ research community, and advancing efforts that reflect the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Through this experience, I hope to bring back global perspectives and solutions to support my future work in climate change and environmental resilience.
