Navigating Sustainable Development for My Career Through Capstone Projects – State of the Planet

Marcella Petiprin and Andrew Pontius, two seniors from Columbia’s Climate School’s Undergraduate Program in Sustainable Development (SDEV) program, recently completed capstone projects and shared their experiences. Marcella, hailing from Flint, Michigan, has a strong passion for water conservation and community service, while Andrew, originally from Bremerton, Washington, has a background in dance and a deep love for the outdoors. Both express the importance of taking advantage of cross-listed courses in the Sustainable Development program to gain a comprehensive understanding of sustainability from various perspectives. They also emphasize the value of engaging with local communities and leveraging their knowledge in academic projects. The program has shaped their understanding of sustainability as a universal, interdisciplinary concept that requires collaboration and innovation to address complex environmental challenges. Their capstone projects focused on addressing flooding issues in Jackson, Mississippi, highlighting the importance of community engagement and a multifaceted approach to sustainability. Overall, Marcella and Andrew’s experiences in the Sustainable Development program have been both challenging and rewarding, providing them with valuable insights and skills for pursuing careers in sustainability.