The goal many students set for their college degree is to turn their passion into a fulfilling career. Shannon Peachey ’22 has found that to be the case after graduating with a degree in Environmental Science. She works with the Squam Lakes Association as a member of AmeriCorps, handling communication-related tasks and physical labor.

“I picked environmental science because I deeply love the outdoors and lifestyle sustainability and am passionate about fighting against climate change. Environmental science seemed the perfect path for me because it allowed me to dive deeper into interests I didn’t give much attention to before,” said Peachey.

Peachey has always been interested in the environment and even lived in the LVC Sustainability House, an interest-driven residential community for students interested in monitoring their environmental impact and planning sustainability initiatives on campus.

“We all shared the same diligence regarding recycling, water conservation, and reducing waste in general, but we also learned different ideas from each other. On top of that, everyone in the house studied a different major, so seeing how sustainability can bring people of different disciplines together was unique,” said Peachey.

Peachey credits her LVC education for preparing her for the realities of a career in environmental science. She appreciated her department’s community, hands-on field training, and the chance to work with people with different backgrounds and skill sets.

“LVC put me outside in the field during my first semester as an environmental science major. This helped prepare me for my career because they immediately exposed me to the work environment, so I knew what I was getting myself into sooner rather than later,” said Peachey.

“LVC also taught me the value of community and the strength of asking for help. My professors were ready to answer questions and showed me grace when life was hard. At LVC, I worked with people of different backgrounds, skills, and disciplines, and from that, I learned how team diversity magnifies success and results,” said Peachey.

Peachey works alongside the Squam Lakes Association nonprofit on conservation efforts in the Squam watershed area in Holderness, New Hampshire. Her duties involve leading snow removal and volunteer efforts along the surrounding trails, creating and presenting environmental interpretation programs, conducting community outreach, and guiding efforts to remove invasive species and educate the public on the dangers they pose to the environment. She enjoys her career and is completing certifications in diving and boating to help water conservation efforts.

When asked about advice for current and future students, she had messages for environmental science majors and the student body at large.

“My advice for students in the environmental science field is to start thinking about internships or research interests as soon as possible and to get involved early,” said Peachey.

As for current and future Dutchmen, her advice is for them to make the most of their time in college.

“Own your time at LVC and make the most of it! Enjoy the learning process. It can be hard to see how valuable your hard work is at the moment, but it will pay off and continue into your career.”