Melzer Morgan, a senior studying sustainable materials and technology in the Department of Forest Biomaterials at NC State, is one of six students in the College of Natural Resources to be selected for the 2022-23 cohort of the Campus As A Classroom program.
For the Campus As A Classroom program, coordinated by the NC State Sustainability Office, students interns will be working on a variety of projects that serve to advance sustainability at NC State. Morgan will be supporting ongoing — and developing — future waste diversion programs.
We recently spoke with Morgan about his experience in the Campus As A Classroom program and how the College of Natural Resources has helped prepare him for the internship. Check out the Q&A below to learn more.
What kinds of things will you be doing during your internship?
I will be working with the Office of Waste Reduction & Recycling to enhance lab waste diversion at NC State. This includes researching potential strategies and developing a plan to implement them. Our main areas of focus are the College of Veterinary Medicine and the College of Natural Resources. I will also be learning more about sustainability and how it is incorporated at NC State.
How did you find out about Campus As A Classroom and why were you interested in it?
I discovered the Campus As A Classroom program through email newsletters from the College of Natural Resources and the Sustainability Office.
In what ways did the College of Natural Resources prepare you for this internship?
The College of Natural Resources has given me numerous opportunities for professional development in addition to coursework that is relevant to this topic. Furthermore, the Sustainable Materials and Technology program emphasizes the importance of sustainability in all aspects of life including business, project management, recycling and design.
What are your long-term goals and how does this internship factor in?
I have always prioritized sustainability and want to continue a career in the field once I graduate in the spring. This internship is a great opportunity to not only broaden my knowledge of the subject but also gain experience in a research-based position. I also hope to make a difference at NC State that leads to continuous improvement in our waste reduction efforts.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned while at NC State?
The most important thing that I have learned at NC State is that you can customize your educational experience based on what you want by engaging in the clubs, internships and classes that interest you. There are countless opportunities available and it is up to you to figure out what you want.
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