What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
I was two years into my Bachelor of Medical Science when the 2019-20 Australian Bushfires hit. I quickly realized that my passion was protecting and restoring our natural ecosystems and unique biodiversity.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
Yes, I participated in a co-op last semester (Fall 24′) at the Global Resilience Institute (a research institute affiliated with Northeastern). While on co-op I assisted with a NOAA-funded project supporting flood resiliency efforts in Vermont and Missouri. I was also fortunate enough to travel to St Kitts and Nevis to support another community resilience project in the Caribbean.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I am the current vice president of the Environmental Science and Policy Leaders for the Environment (ESP-LFE) student group, affiliated with my master’s program. As part of ESP-LFE, I help organize social and community outreach events including hikes, bowling nights and invasive species removal.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
I have enjoyed the flexibility allowed in my program. I have covered topics including hydrology, nature-based solutions, and urban ecology.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
Our program manager Professor Benjamin Dittbrenner is an invaluable mentor and resource. He was the first person I spoke to at Northeastern whilst I was still living in Australia and is currently supporting my efforts to attain a job after graduation and efforts in ESP-LFE.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you?
Fundamentally, I am not sure. I would love a role that would allow me to do a number of different tasks and projects, would hopefully have a community engagement aspect, and generally in the realm of ecological restoration.
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
In general, I want to contribute to solutions that solve socio-ecological problems, such as restoring ecosystems whilst pursuing equity and enhancing the livelihoods of vulnerable populations.
Emma Hibbert ’25, Environmental Science and Policy
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
Take advantage of the different courses, this is a great time to experiment and find out what you are interested in before you enter a career.
