Graduation to Vocation: Enhancing the Environment

Jasmine Neverson is a recent Forestry and Environmental Resources graduate who received her undergraduate degree in Environmental Technology and Management. She received a scholarship from the Dr. Norman and Betty Camp Partners for Environmental Justice Scholarship Endowment.

Post-graduation, Jasmine plans to move to Charlotte, North Carolina, where she will work as an environmental scientist at Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc.

How has the College of Natural Resources impacted you and prepared you for your future?

The College of Natural Resources has exposed me to a variety of enriching opportunities. It was here that I found out about the Doris Duke Conservation Scholarship Program and WOCIS (a group for women of color in stem that provides professional, academic and personal support), the two most influential experiences in my college career.

What kind of research or other hands-on/in-the-field learning did you participate in?

I worked on a forest ecology project in Wisconsin and established my own research on birds while collecting forest data. I interned with the Fish & Wildlife Service on a migratory bird Wildlife Refuge, and with Kimley-Horn, delineating wetland areas. I was also able to volunteer with the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, practicing environmental education and animal husbandry.

Tell us about a faculty member who influenced you.

Dr. Zakiya Leggett was a very influential faculty member during my time at NC State. She groomed me as a professional while helping me excel in my major. As an upperclassman, she helped me find sisterhood at NC State and for the rest of my life through Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

What motivated you to pursue your work?

At a very early stage in my college career, I established my “Why.” This became my driving force through every hard exam, long night, or closed door. While it has shifted throughout my time at NC State, my “Why” has always been grounded in being the face of opportunity and excellence. I hoped that I could inspire young students of color to join CNR and excel in their studies, so they too could have a voice in the future of our world.

What advice would you give students entering your major or field?

Find the balance between knowing your worth and jumping at every opportunity. It is possible to do fulfilling work and be financially stable. Also, network as much as possible. The connections you make in college will largely benefit you while looking for internships, research and jobs.