An Interview with Zoja Misut, BA, Environmental Studies, 2023

 

Zoja Misut graduated with a B.A. in Environmental Studies in 2023 and currently works for FEMA.

I began my college journey in 2020, amidst the height of the quarantine, unsure of what major to choose or what life would look like in a post-pandemic world. A single night class with Professor Campos sparked a passion for the environment that I hadn't realized I had. This class and the others following opened my eyes to the career possibilities within the environmental field. Because the Geography Department at Hunter is relatively small, I was fortunate to form meaningful relationships with both my peers and professors—connections that many commuter students don't always have the privilege of making.

During my undergraduate years, I took a wide range of courses, from the history of the Earth to environmental policies, urban development, GIS software, and all their impacts on today’s modern society. A special shoutout goes to Professor Reinmann’s Field Ecology class, where we ventured outside to experience firsthand the importance of loving and protecting our ecosystems. For my capstone research, I worked with Professor Reinmann, focusing on the vital role of green and blue spaces in urban environments and their significant impact on both our physical and mental health. I also joined the Green Belt Society, during my time we planted hundreds of trees, cleaned up beaches and parks, and hiked many miles of trails.

Alongside my studies, I worked as an industrial hygienist in the city, gaining valuable experience in water quality, hazardous materials, and commercial building maintenance. After graduation, I was fortunate to find a position with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a career opportunity made possible through the Geography Department. Given the rising frequency of catastrophic storms due to climate change, my role involves helping communities become more resilient to the increasing intensity of these storms. I am also pursuing my GIS certificate and planning to continue my education with a master’s degree in Geography.

Published: January 8, 2025