Hannah Bergam has been studying environmental issues since she was in high school. As part of her Physettes Club in high school – a Women in Science group – she implemented carbon neutrality practices through student field trips and tree planting outings. So, it made sense for her to major in environmental studies and economics in college.

Bergam was recently awarded the Muckenhoupt Scholarship, an award for students who, “will use their training in science to benefit the environment of the earth and the life upon it.”

Since coming to Northeastern, Bergam has worked with Professor Matthias Ruth, studying the urban heat island effect in Boston and looking into populations most at-risk of heat-related illnesses. She has also traveled to Iceland with Professor Mal Hill to study volcanic and glacial processes. And she has worked with Professor Darien Wood to research the renovation and maintenance of Boston City parks and playgrounds, which has included meetings with city officials as well as playground designers to advocate for inclusive play.

She says students who are interested in environmental work should become involved in this type of work in whatever way interests them. She also says students should enroll in classes and join groups that are not related to their majors.

Down the road, Bergam has plans to obtain a master’s degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Economics, or Computer Science.