Meredith Geraghty, '06

"After graduating from the University of New England…I spent a year teaching at High Trails Outdoor Science School, an organization focusing on residential outdoor education for California elementary and middle school students. Then I joined the Peace Corps and served both in Bolivia and El Salvador. My work was focused around developing environmental education programs with local schools.

"Upon returning to the United States I was accepted to Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs in New York City. I am currently pursuing a master of public administration in environmental science and policy, directing my studies towards sustainability in higher education.

"My experiences at UNE directly contributed to my professional development. My current interest in the field of sustainability in higher education was engendered through my efforts ‘greening’ the UNE campus: I headed a ‘Greening UNE’ Undergraduate Student Government ad-hoc committee…to create what is now the established Environmental Council.

"The professors at UNE’s Department of Environmental Studies are amazing! Beyond being friendly and approachable, they were genuinely interested in their students' academic and professional development. I still have a close relationship with several of my professors and continue to seek their guidance, recommendations and friendship."