Despite going to school thousands of miles from the ocean, Sabrina Severin didn’t let that stop her from pursuing her passion. After graduating from the Environmental Studies program at UNL in May of 2020, Severin was eager to continue learning. She traveled south to the University of Miami to pursue a master’s degree in Marine Conservation, and was quick to attribute much of her preparedness to her time within the Environmental Studies program.
“It was amazing how many skills transferred over from my undergraduate degree to my graduate degree, and how many students from other universities lacked some of these skills,” Serverin said. “It made me very grateful for everything I learned during my time in the Environmental Studies program.”
As an undergraduate, Severin was a CASNR Environmental Studies student, with a minor in Fisheries and Wildlife. She was also a member of Sustain UNL. Getting involved presented many opportunities, Severin said. She said it also went a long way in making her more prepared for life after school.
“My interactions within the program and Sustain UNL helped build my confidence in meeting new people and pursuing what I’m passionate about. They prepared me for opening my eyes to new perspectives and overcoming obstacles,” Severin said. “I learned a variety of skills while deepening my passion for the environment.”
Severin currently works as the Ocean Health Education and Conservation Coordinator for Diventures, an organization that specializes in swim, scuba, and travel. Within that role, she creates and teaches an ecology class for students enrolled in the program, facilitates partnerships with zoos and aquariums, and supports external school partnerships.
Thinking back on her time within the program, Severin said that a few things stand out.
“The Wildlife Management and Wildlife Field Techniques course was one of my favorite classes because we were able to practice hands-on field techniques at the Cedar Point Biological Station. I will always remember that unique experience and the skills we were able to learn. Another class that helped my transition was the ENVR 319 class with Dr. Gosselin where we were able to directly work with different groups in Lincoln. It was such a neat opportunity getting to meet and work with professionals in our field.”
Though over two years removed from being a student at UNL, Severin remembers her time here vividly. The key to her success after graduating from UNL is heavily linked to her experience within the program.
“For new Environmental Studies students, I would encourage you to get involved as much as possible and build relationships with your professors,” Severin said. “By getting involved, not only will you be exposed to more opportunities, but you will also meet so many new people. Networking is so important so the more people you know in your career field, the better.”
More details at: https://catalog.unl.edu/undergraduate/agricultural-sciences-natural-resources/environmental-studies/