Fuel the Fire for Change
Do you care about creating a more sustainable and equitable world? Consider shaping your future in Environment + Society.
UCSB offers students a comprehensive education in Environment + Society through programs such as Environmental Studies, Geography, and Earth Science. Beyond these, there are numerous other interdisciplinary fields to explore, including sustainability, environmental law, urban planning, environmental policy, conservation, environmental justice, and climate change adaptation. All of these areas are interconnected, sharing foundational knowledge and skills related to environmental stewardship and societal impacts.
Explore how you can turn your passion into a meaningful career or shift your UCSB education toward a rewarding path in Environment + Society.
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Gain Experience - Environment + Society
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Overview
While gaining experience directly related to environmental policy, conservation, or sustainability is valuable, there are many transferable skills—such as teamwork, communication, critical thinking, and leadership—that can be developed through campus organizations, student jobs, and coursework. These experiences can help boost your confidence and provide clarity as you pursue a career in these areas.
No matter your major or discipline, pursuing an education related to Environment + Society at UCSB will equip you with essential skills like critical thinking, communication, analysis, problem-solving, and teamwork, all of which are crucial for your career after graduation. It's also important to build these capabilities outside the classroom. Engaging in hands-on experiences during your college years not only enhances your skill set but also gives you the opportunity to apply your knowledge in real-world settings. By acquiring these experiences, you strengthen your candidacy for competitive positions and programs, while also gaining a deeper understanding of your personal interests and career goals.
UCSB offers a variety of campus organizations centered around Environment + Society, providing a platform for students with shared career interests to connect, interact with alumni professionals, and expand their networks. Getting involved in these groups and attending their events allows you to take on leadership roles, deepen your understanding of the field, and collaborate on meaningful projects. Many students at UCSB have joined organizations dedicated to environmental advocacy, social equity, and other important causes they are passionate about.
Student jobs are highly recommended for students interested in Environment + Society, as you can find positions related to sustainability, environmental advocacy, or community engagement. These roles offer valuable opportunities to develop communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills that are essential for careers in Environment + Society fields.
Undergraduate research provides a chance to collaborate with graduate students or professors on projects related to environmental issues, sustainability, or social impact. This experience helps you develop essential skills in communication, writing, data analysis, and research methods, which are valuable for both graduate school and careers in the Environment + Society field.
By engaging in research on environmental or societal challenges, you can deepen your theoretical understanding and apply this knowledge to become a more effective practitioner in your future career.
One of the great aspects of pursuing a career in Environment + Society is the variety of ways you can make a difference, especially within the local Santa Barbara community. Seek out part-time work or volunteer opportunities related to environmental issues, sustainability projects, or social impact initiatives.
If you're interested in addressing environmental and societal challenges, consider studying abroad through the Education Abroad Program to enhance your global perspective and cross-cultural competencies. This experience can offer meaningful opportunities. Studying abroad can provide valuable insights into diverse environmental and societal practices and perspectives beyond the United States.
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