A Passion for Sustainability and History

A conversation with UNH junior, Jess Calarese
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Meet Jess Calarese, a junior environmental conservation and sustainability and history double major. Jess is currently an intern with the Sustainability Institute working to maintain and promote Cat Trax, the campus bike share program. We caught up with her to hear more about her experience as a Wildcat. 

person standing outside with trees in the background

 SI: Let’s start with what you love most about UNH. 
Jess: I would say I love the nature of UNH the most, particularly in the fall! I like that it has a cozy atmosphere instead of feeling a bit overwhelming like a city would! 

SI: So, how did you get excited about sustainability and involved at UNH? 
Jess: I first got involved by joining the Sustainability Advocates program, which allows students in dorms to engage their peers in sustainability through themed socials. I particularly enjoyed tabling in the front lobby to demonstrate correct recycling techniques. It motivated me to apply for an internship at the Sustainability Institute! 

person on a deck outside pointing to the ocean in the background

SI: What’s been your favorite class and how does history weave into sustainability for you? 
Jess: American Environmental History! This class inspired me to commit to a double major and combine my love for sustainability and history. This class forced me to think critically about the chain of events that have led to modern-day environmental degradation. I also did an extensive final project for this class on a historical analysis of fast fashion, which is a topic I am deeply passionate about. 

person outside on a sidewalk by the water holding an umbrella

SI: Have a favorite sustainability hands-on experience so far? 
Jess: I’ve really enjoyed being a Cat Trax intern so far! It has pushed me out of my comfort zone by being completely different from any other work I’ve done previously. The jobs I have held in the past were teaching assistant roles, so working in a different environment while still aiming to teach the public about sustainable transportation has been an adjustment from my norm. I’ve learned that, although in a different form, the education portion of the internship has allowed me to find creative methods of engaging the public. The Institute and my co-worker, Vic, have done a great job welcoming me by being supportive of my ideas! 

person standing outside next to the water smiling

SI: Any other impactful experiences for you? 
Jess: It would probably be volunteering a bunch at food pantries to combat food waste. I’ve volunteered at the Waysmeet Center more times than I can count! I love the community that I have become a part of while finding a way to combat food waste. All volunteers are highly appreciated and welcomed as if they were family. Getting a smile or hearing a thank you from customers helps me to feel that I am making an impact. 

SI: Any advice for current students, or students considering UNH, who are interested in sustainability?
Jess: Start small! Joining programs like Sustainability Advocates or going to events like Earth Day Jam Fest can help create change without feeling overwhelming! I feel this would be able to help students discover if they wanted to formally study sustainability, go into it as a career path, or pick up sustainable habits as a hobby.