Reflections of a Wildcat: Saying Yes Led to Internships, Mentors, New Friends, & Pride in Making Positive Impact
As someone passionate about making a difference for a more sustainable world, senior Marisa Bianchi '26 (geography and sustainability dual major) reflects on what has made her UNH experience unique. From helping reduce waste on campus, to mentoring peers while helping a regional company become B Corp certified, Marisa has harnessed the possibilities at UNH by saying yes and has made a big impact for campus and beyond.
How did you get excited about sustainability and involved at UNH?
I started caring about sustainability once I learned that our ecosystems are being destroyed by human actions, and the impact climate change has on animals and humans! I got excited once I learned that there are many lifestyle changes I can make that not only help the planet, but improve my health as well.
I came to UNH for sustainability after seeing our Platinum STARS rating, and I’ve been involved in sustainability since I got here, starting as a Sustainability Advocate. I was an Advocate for two years, and I’ve been a Sustainability Institute intern for three.
Do you have a favorite program at the Sustainability Institute, and what impacted you most about those sustainability experiences?
My absolute favorite program is Trash 2 Treasure, which I am now a lead intern of. This is my fourth year being involved with T2T, and I absolutely love making a tangible impact and promoting zero waste. I also loved the B Impact Clinic, which pairs your group of students with a real business looking to pursue a B Corp certification! I was a student consultant for my first semester, and the next semester I was a peer mentor, the leader of my consultant group! It felt amazing being able to get my clients’ businesses certified by the end of the semester!
My sustainability experiences have given me opportunities to meet amazing mentors, improve my professional communication skills, and take ownership over my projects.
Favorite everyday simple sustainable living tip?
My favorite everyday living tip is boycotting brands that I do not morally align with when feasible. I make sure my purchases align with my morals (and I save money in the process).
What advice do you have for a student thinking about coming to UNH who is interested in or curious about sustainability?
As someone who was very shy during my first two years at UNH, I’ll tell you to put yourself out there and try new things! There are so many sustainability programs at UNH, say yes to some of them! Saying yes is how I got my paid internships, met my mentors, and made friends!
