Nisha Nadkarni ’20, an Environmental Sciences major at UVM’s Rubenstein School, shifted from exercise science to pursue her interests in community development and water quality. Originally from Massachusetts, she chose UVM to experience New England beyond her hometown. Her interest in water quality began in her sophomore year, leading her to research opportunities at the Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Laboratory. She interned with Dr. Mindy Morales-Williams, studying nitrogen and phosphorus effects on cyanobacteria.
Nisha also engaged in hands-on projects related to her concentration in Ecological Design, including a constructed wetland project. Following her junior year, she worked with Blue BTV, consulting local residents on managing stormwater to improve Lake Champlain’s water quality. This shift from data-focused research to community engagement broadened her perspective on collaboration between science and local stakeholders. After graduating, she plans to continue with Blue BTV as a consultant, aiming to connect deeply with the places she works.
