What can a student accomplish in a semester? Here at UNH, Semester in the City (SITC) explores how students can create meaningful impact while focusing on their academic studies. Since 2016, the University has been affiliated with Boston non-profit College for Social Innovation to provide internships centered on sustainability. Students can earn 16 UNH credits while interning with an organization or company to help solve social and environmental issues. During this 30 hour weekly commitment, they will gain critical skills and real-world experience.
Daisy Burns '24 combines her passion for sustainability with her interest in economics
Daisy Burns ’24 (Economics and Sustainability dual major) is among those participating in the program. A junior at UNH, Daisy first became involved with SITC after participating in the Changemaker Fellowship her freshman year. After experiencing the positive impact of working with a community passionate about social change, Daisy decided to further her experience by participating in SITC.
As part of her internship, Daisy is responsible for coducting research on net zero investing. Working with the UNH Foundation and Prime Bucholz (UNHF’s investment consultant), Daisy studies greenhouse gas footprints and funds in which UNH invests. Her research focuses on identifying ways to reduce the carbon impact of investing, as well as determine potential obstacles for different tracking methods. To gain an understanding of the factors involved, Daisy assesses current methods that measure the emissions of investments and compares peer university net zero strategies.
The biggest challenge for her so far has been becoming familiar with the financial components of the project. Since researching financial risks and returns are an important part of a net zero transition, Daisy has learned to expand her knowledge outside her major. “This semester I hope to come away from this project being more adaptable to different work environments and subjects,” she reflects. She also notes that while it’s not uncommon to feel underqualified when beginning something new, part of the value is “learning as much as you can throughout the experience.”
For Daisy, her SITC internship provides an opportunity to be part of an impactful venture. As institutions and businesses begin to shift towards a sustainable future, reducing greenhouse gas emissions is an important first step. “What excites me most about this project is the university’s eagerness to involve students,” Daisy says. “Reducing the GHG footprint of investments is a new challenge many universities, organizations, companies, and fund managers are facing, and I am excited to be part of this transition.”
Contemplating her experience so far, she encourages students to try different activities. “I would recommend challenging yourself with an experience like Semester in the City because it’s a great way to learn things that you really can’t get from a classroom. SITC gives students the opportunity to work full-time and then use that experience to guide your career path.”
As the semester progresses, Daisy looks forward to contributing towards UNH’s sustainable future.
