Graduate Program of Global Environmental Studies (GENV)
Heather Lueck
- I am from Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the USA. As an undergrad at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Geography. Since high school, I have had a deep interest in environmental studies and wanted to continue along with that into college.
- I chose to partake in the Global Environmental Studies Program at Sophia University because I wanted to continue my environmental studies education and because I am fond of Japan. I have been to Japan twice before entering this program, and wanted to come again. Applying for this program just seemed like the natural next step for me to do, combining two things I enjoy, environmental studies and Japanese culture. As well, Sophia U. had a good reputation among many of my Japanese friends as being a very international school, so I wanted to become a part of this great community and broaden my international knowledge and experiences.
- I have learned so much from my professors and fellow peers. Not only have I learned about the various environmental problems that affect countries and regions, I have also learned about my peers’ culture and lifestyles from their homeland. I have met many wonderful people from all over the world and I hope to remain friends with them into the far future. If the opportunity arises, I wish to visit my many friends’ home country.
- I would like to find a career related to my field of study, therefore I am looking into a career in Vertical Farming. Actually, my research is on vertical farming, and I really enjoyed learning about this type of enterprise. I feel this enterprise has great potential in the future and will be a fulfilling career for me. Another option for me would be to work for the Government as a Foreign Service Officer. I would possibly choose this path as a career because this is one way to help implement more stringent environmental policies globally.
- Life in Japan has been a difficult but rewarding experience. Getting used to tight, small spaces and queues for so many places and events was, and still is a challenge, but the food is delicious, the public transportation is amazing, the people are very kind, and the country’s scenery is beautiful. I will be graduating soon, returning to the USA most likely, but I will always consider Japan as a second home and will visit as often as I can.
