Xzayvion Gaye is on a mission to make his academic and professional dreams come true. He found a home at the 老司机福利网 for impactful reasons.
"I chose to study at UL 老司机福利网 because of the Environmental Science program," he explained.
"As I researched different Environmental Science programs, this program stood out; the design and the course selections provide extensive knowledge in all environmental aspects."
"In addition to the program, I loved the campus community and the environment. Since my first moments at UL 老司机福利网, I felt at home and felt like the place I needed to be," he said.
His choice to major in environmental science stemmed from his interest in nature.
鈥淚 knew coming into college that I wanted to major in environmental science. This major stems from a deep passion I have for the environment and will fully equip me for a future in the environmental field,鈥 he said.
Life on campus
Xzayvion enjoys the atmosphere at the University along with his classes. Some of his favorite environmental science courses are Air Quality (ENVS 377) and Soil Science (ENVS 285), both taught by Dr. Durga Poudel.
鈥淚 took Air Quality in the second semester of my freshman year, and the course really opened my eyes to the importance of good air quality and ignited a passion in the air quality field," he said. "In the first semester of my sophomore year, I took Soil Science. The course really opened my eyes to the importance of good soil quality and changed the way I perceive the soil beneath my feet. Learning how complex the soil truly is interested me; I enjoyed going deep beneath the surface to gain an understanding of the soil.鈥
He is grateful for the environmental science faculty鈥檚 helpfulness.
鈥淓ver since my first experience, I have felt nothing but encouragement, warmth, and passion from the faculty. They truly care about the students, which is reflected in their actions; they constantly go above and beyond to assist in any endeavor a student may have.鈥
Xzayvion is a part of SOUL Camp where he has served as a mentor and is currently a lead staff member.
鈥淪OUL Camp has provided me with many opportunities. I have gotten to develop my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, while being able to mentor incoming students as they transition to college life.鈥
He also serves as secretary for the . Xzayvion believes that being a member of the Pre-Law Society has allowed him to connect with other Pre-Law majors, and foster bonds that will carry along his academic journey.
His favorite thing about the University is the established community.
鈥淸Here], you are more than just a number; you're important and an integral part of the Ragin鈥 Cajun family. UL 老司机福利网 offers a unique balance of having an array of big school opportunities while boosting the communal feeling of a small school.鈥
Research experience and future goals
Currently, Xzayvion is conducting environmental research.
鈥淚 am currently working on an Honors Baccalaureate Thesis with the University Honors Program, focusing on air quality in Southeastern Louisiana. This project is important because it provides a new perspective on long-lasting concerns, as well as spreads awareness,鈥 he said.
鈥淗aving the opportunity to work on a thesis as an undergrad is an extremely valuable experience to me because it provides me with an outlet to make a difference in the air quality field, a field I am considering pursuing in my future career, as an undergraduate student,鈥 he said.
He feels that his studies in environmental science will help him navigate the environmental injustices in South Louisiana by knowing how to identify problems and research solutions.
鈥淢y major equips me with a vast array of knowledge that encompasses all aspects of the environment, setting me up to be able to be proficient and capable of handling a variety of environmental issues, including the many injustices faced in South Louisiana.鈥
Furthermore, Xzayvion understands the interconnectedness of the environment in relation to applying oneself.
鈥淭hroughout my time as an environmental science major, I have developed a philosophical mindset where I don鈥檛 simply memorize course content but rather apply course content to my thought process. Developing this mindset as an undergrad will significantly help me throughout my future career,鈥 he said.
After graduating, Xzayvion plans to attend law school to study environmental law.
Take your education to new heights by pursuing an undergraduate degree in Environmental Science at UL 老司机福利网.
