Kellyn Chandler, Haub School Student Stories

October, 2023

Kellyn Chandler (she/her)

Sustainability Coalition Leader

Degree: Wildlife & Fisheries Biology & Management, and Environtment and Natural Resources (ENR), with a minor in Sustainability

Hometown: Dubois, WY

The Sustainability Coalition meets every other Thursday from 7-8 p.m. in the Beta House (1731 Fraternity Row) in the Collaboratory (Room 207). The next club meeting is..... 

Join for their next big event, Solar Fest on October 27, 3-6 p.m. in Simpson's Plaza (SE corner of Prexy's Pasture)

 

What is your central role within the University, and what are  your primary objectives?

"I am this year's senior leader for the Sustainability Coalition! My primary objective is to help sustainability become a more tangible topic for students. Sustainability can be a nebulous and intimidating term, which I think makes it challenging for people to appreciate the concept for how much it incorporates. So, my main goal is to help people understand how sustainability affects them and plays into their lives. I enjoy talking to people about topic within the field that make them excited, or tying outside interests into sustainability."

 

What motivated you to choose this position, and how has it influenced your academic journey?

"I chose this position because it seemed like a really good outlet for meaningful work on campus. I believe that the world can truly become a better place if we all do what we can. Sustainability is a phenomenal way to try to make the world a better place. Academically this position inspired me to add the minor, and through the classes I have learned so much and have applied them widely in my life."

 

What skills or qualities have you developed during your experience that will be beneficial in the future?

"Learning to reach out! My ability to seek out individuals that may be able to help with our goals, or talk at club, or plan events, etc, has grown significantly during my time with the coalition. People often want to help or hear what you are doing, all you have to do is ask! This position has helped me learn how to be more confident in speaking to people and realizing that what I have to say matters."

 

Sustainability Coaliton after harvesting pumpkins and vegetales for last harvest at ACRES Student Farm.

 

What were the most valuable lessons you learned, both academically and personally?

"Community is huge. Making connections in classes, across major, within the community, at events, and every other way you can imagine is so critical to    building support and learning from one another. When you build community you  open all sorts of doors for accepting and giving help, and learning new perspectives and I think that is so incredibly valuable."

 

How do you envision applying the knowledge and experiences gained  during your undergraduate studies to your future goals or career aspirations?

"Ooh so many ways! As I said earlier, the confidence is a huge one. But I also feel like I have accumulated a wide skill set in communication and problem solving through this position before that I know will benefit me massively in my career."

 

How has the Sustainability Coalition supported your professional journey? What are your favorite parts about this position?

"Learning about a different side of conservation! I have always been more focused  on the wildlife part of my degree, and joining the Coalition has opened my eyes to the kinds of meaningful work that are out there. I can make the world a better place in a variety of ways! Wrangling animals and writing emails 😂!"

 

I am a Haubie because… "I love wild things and wild spaces and I want to learn  as much as possible to protect the wilderness of the world for many years to come."