Building a future in environmental policy

Martha Wondimu is a third-year student studying environmental science, policy and management, along with minors in sustainability and creative writing. She enjoys the opportunities and diverse courses that her major offers, allowing her to dive deeper into the career path she is passionate about.

A sense of responsibility

I got my start in conservation through my dad. Growing up, we spent weekends at farmers' markets, watching PBS nature documentaries, and visiting Como Park Zoo all the time. Through my father exposing me to nature and sustainability from a young age, my sense of responsibility to protect it truly flourished.

A versatile major 

I chose to major in ESPM (environmental science, policy and management) because of how versatile it is. I love that the major allows you to explore different tracks to find your niche, while still having the flexibility to take classes across multiple areas. Learning about the policy, planning, law, and society track really piqued my interest because it allows me to combine my love for the environment with my interest in policy.

Opportunities in St. Paul and abroad 

Through this major, I’ve gained a diverse range of experiences. For instance, in an environmental justice class, I got to work directly with former state senator, Patricia Torres Ray, on a climate-focused insurance bill addressing how rising housing insurance costs are directly linked to climate change, which solidified my interest in policy work. 

Studying abroad at the University of Galway in Ireland — and conducting ecology fieldwork there including small mammal trapping, bird surveys, water quality testing, and plant identification — opened my eyes to the prospects of pursuing work or even grad school abroad.

In Grounded in Purpose, members of CFANS’ Black community share how they discovered their niche in nature. From students and postdocs to faculty and alumni, they are advancing work to preserve and protect the planet.