By Cole Mamayek, 2023 IPE Summer Intern
In June, 15 high school students from around the world joined IU faculty for an in-depth exploration of environmental and sustainability issues through the eighth annual Summer Experience in Sustainability and the Environment (SESE).
This week-long virtual summer camp focused on the uncertain state of climate change in both our communities and in natural areas across the globe. Sponsored by IU’s Integrated Program in the Environment (IPE), the week’s events, activities, and teachings educated students on various advanced topics related to sustainability and the environment. Students also explored educational pathways at IU and heard from a variety of professionals about how they could use various environmental degrees in the field.
Each day was led by a different instructor focusing on a different topic:
- Dr. Ben Kravitz, Climate Modeling (College of Arts and Sciences, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences)
- Dr. Sarah Mincey, Urban Forestry (O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs)
- Dr. Brian Forist, Outdoor Recreation and Public Health (School of Public Health)
- Lori Frye, Sustainable Fashion (Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture, and Design)
- Emily Miles, Environmental Communication (Office of the Provost)
Educating Young Environmentalists
Students opt in to this experience due to their existing interest in environmental change and are able to have very meaningful discussions with the faculty hosting each day. Each instructor formed a unique learning environment, and though some students professed more interest in certain topics throughout the week, there was meaningful engagement every day. SESE allows students to deepen their scientific and social understanding of the ideas they’re already passionate about.
Cole Mamayek, current IUB undergraduate student and 2023 SESE intern, shared, “It was interesting seeing how the SESE attendees’ views and ideas related to climate change varied, though their overall motives and interests largely related. Seeing how the young environmentalists dealt with new challenging issues showed how the new generation will bring innovative ideas into our world. This was mainly shown in our last day of activities where students were taught how to make their own environmental communications.”
About the Integrated Program in the Environment
IPE is jointly administered by IUB’s O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, School of Public Health, and College of Arts + Sciences. IPE’s interdisciplinary nature reflects a commitment to preparing the next generation of scientists, policy-makers, communicators, and leaders who face significant and complex environmental and sustainability challenges.
Students interested in SESE for future summers should keep an eye on the IPE website. For information about applications and other details, reach out to iuipe@indiana.edu.
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