Dominic Zecca is a senior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in environmental technology and management. He transferred to NC State in 2022 after spending two years at Davidson-Davie Community College.

As a member of the James Buzzard Leadership Development Program, Zecca works with a professional coach on developing his leadership skills, collaborates with fellow students on leadership projects, and much more.

Zecca also serves on a team of undergraduate researchers, led by NC State professor Angela Allen, who are training to identify and address drinking water quality issues in southeast Raleigh.

We recently asked Zecca about his academic journey at NC State and his goals for the future. Check out the Q&A below to learn more.

Why did you choose to study environmental technology and management?

I chose to study environmental technology and management because it was a unique major that I had not seen at any other college when I was applying as a transfer student. I was drawn to the hands-on applicability of the course curriculum and the real-world skills that I would develop as a part of this major.

Once I met with the program director, I knew that I had chosen the right major to be a part of. Over time, I have grown to like the small classes and close-knit nature of the people in this major. I have made amazing friends and connections because of my major, and I am grateful to have chosen this major when I transferred here. I wouldn’t change it for anything.

What is your favorite memory or class from your time at NC State?

My favorite class from my time at NC State was BIO 588: Neurobiology. When I was looking through available classes for my minor, I was drawn to this class due to my interest in psychology and the human brain. I met with the instructor, John Mietzen, before the class to discuss the potential of taking his class since I didn’t meet the prerequisites; and from then on, I knew that I was going to love the class. I enjoyed expanding my knowledge of the brain and challenging myself to take a rigorous class. I learned that I can learn and adapt to many different academic fields and that you should always look to try to broaden your horizons and what you think is possible for you to achieve. 

What are your career goals?

My career goals center on working in stormwater management and urban water conservation, with a particular focus on implementing green infrastructure solutions for environmental challenges. I’m passionate about protecting and restoring urban waterways through stream stabilization and revegetation projects.

I’m building expertise in water quality assessment, environmental monitoring, and ecological restoration. I am aiming for a career where I can apply scientific knowledge to practical environmental engineering and conservation efforts in urban settings. I am particularly interested in roles that bridge the gap between technical environmental work and the policy or public outreach aspects of environmental management, allowing me to make a meaningful impact on urban ecosystems.

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

Through my time at the College of Natural Resources, I’ve gained both practical skills and theoretical knowledge that directly apply to my career goals in stormwater management and urban water conservation. The hands-on experience I’ve received monitoring Raleigh’s waterways has taught me valuable field techniques for water quality assessment and data collection that employers seek. My coursework has provided me with a strong foundation in environmental science and technological principles, while research opportunities studying wetland ecosystems have deepened my understanding of natural processes that can inform green infrastructure solutions.

Being part of the James Buzzard Leadership Development Program has been particularly transformative, helping me develop the professional and leadership skills necessary to collaborate effectively across departments and communicate complex environmental data to various stakeholders. The program’s networking opportunities with industry leaders and field trips to various organizations have expanded my professional connections while giving me insight into real-world applications of environmental management principles.

Perhaps, most importantly, the College of Natural Resources has nurtured my passion for urban environmental conservation while equipping me with the technical expertise that will allow me to make meaningful contributions to protecting and restoring urban waterways from day one of my professional career.

What advice would you give to students entering your major?

I would tell any new student entering my major to take full advantage of the resources, classes and professors around you. The faculty and staff in the College of Natural Resources are here to help you grow and challenge yourself to be a better student, steward of the environment, and person. In particular, Angela Allen, the director of Environmental Technology and Management program, is an amazing person who will put down whatever she is working on to help you with whatever problem or project that you are facing.

For college in general, I would recommend students to not be afraid to ask questions and ask about opportunities. You often don’t have what you don’t ask for, so don’t be scared to explore your options and make connections with various professors all over the university. Lastly, I would recommend getting involved in some type of volunteering; it is important to give back to the surrounding communities and people who helped you along the way.

Tell us about something you are passionate about outside of your academic studies.

I am passionate about baking, cooking, rock climbing and playing basketball. If I am not in class or doing research, I can often be found in the gym using the various facilities. I enjoy spending time exercising, trying new wellness classes and meeting new people through various sports and organizations.

I love trying out new recipes for baking and making tasty things for my friends. The freedom and creativity that cooking provides is a fun activity that allows me to use my past experiences in the food industry to create interesting food combinations.