The Finnish-American student is graduating with a BSc in Global Sustainability and has secured a place on a Masters programme at the University of Helsinki.
Initially unsure what to study after high school, she was drawn to sustainability because of its growing importance and the wide range of career opportunities it offers.
"A lot of the other degrees I found were either too heavy on the biological or business side, but this degree immediately caught my attention because of how equal the biology and interdisciplinary components were," she said.
Essex stood out because of the course itself and the support she received during the application process.
"I was drawn to Essex because of the degree itself as well as how efficient and accommodating the University had been in supporting my application," she said.
Arriving at Essex without knowing anyone was daunting, but she quickly found a community through her studies, volunteering and extracurricular activities.
"I knew absolutely no one when I first arrived and was worried I would not be able to connect with anyone," she said. "My time here has been incredibly fulfilling, and I am so grateful to have had the chance to study here."
Alongside her studies, she became involved in volunteering, Students' Union activities and the University's dance club, while also gaining valuable research experience through the Gatsby Plant Science Summer School and the Essex Plant Innovation Centre.
Reflecting on her time at Essex, she believes university has been as much about personal growth as academic achievement.
"University is one of the best places to make mistakes and get to know yourself before navigating the real world," she said.
She credits Professor Leanne Hepburn, who developed the Global Sustainability degree, and Professor Tracy Lawson for helping shape her university experience and opening doors to new opportunities.
After graduation, she will continue her studies at the University of Helsinki while exploring future opportunities in the sustainability sector.
"There is still a lot of uncertainty regarding my career plans, but I have been accepted into a Masters programme at the University of Helsinki, which is very exciting," she said.
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