As a senior Computer Science major at Florida State University and a Special Projects Developer at FSU, I’ve always been drawn to the meeting of innovation and real-world impact. Now, as I prepare for my exchange program at the University of Sussex, I have spent time reflecting on how I can make this journey not just academically significant, but also environmentally responsible.
Traveling internationally is a privilege, but it’s also a responsibility in today’s climate. While studying abroad involves flights and new daily routines, I believe that travel can be more sustainable and aligned with the values outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; particularly climate action (Goal 13), responsible consumption (Goal 12), and sustainable communities (Goal 11).
One of the first things that I did when planning my trip was looking into carbon offset options for my flight. I understand that carbon offsets are not the best solution, but they are a step in the right direction to balance out the environmental impact of long-distance air travel! I also made a point to pack lightly and bring reusable items like a water thermos, a travel bag, and utensils to reduce my reliance on disposable plastics while abroad.
Once in the UK, I plan to strongly rely on public transportation, biking, and walking as much as possible. Brighton has a strong transit system and is very pedestrian and bike friendly, so this aligns well with my habits and environmental goals! It’s a small change, but over the course of several months, I believe that it can make a real difference!
As someone working in tech, I’m also thinking about how I can apply my skills to sustainability while I’m abroad. At FSU, my role involves finding efficient, practical solutions through software. I hope to continue that mindset in Sussex, whether that’s by contributing to better digital sustainability, working on side projects focused on energy efficiency, or just being more mindful of how computing resources are used!
Beyond transportation and technology, I’m committed to making more sustainable choices in daily life. I plan to shop locally, cook more meals instead of relying on takeout, and recycle as much as possible. I also want to get involved in campus or community sustainability projects, such as volunteering or attending events that raise awareness about climate issues!
Ultimately, I see this exchange not just as a chance to study in a new country, but as an opportunity to live out the values I care about. I want to use this experience to build connections, learn new perspectives, and grow—not just academically or professionally, but as someone who takes real action to protect the world we share!
Sources Used:
https://sdgs.un.org/goals
