Nisha Nadkarni, a senior at UVM majoring in Environmental Sciences, initially planned to study exercise science but switched to the Rubenstein School out of a passion for community development and water quality. She became interested in water quality during her sophomore year, working at the Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Laboratory and later interning with Dr. Mindy Morales-Williams to study cyanobacteria influenced by excess nitrogen and phosphorus.
Nisha’s concentration in Ecological Design led her to hands-on projects like constructed wetlands. Further exploring stormwater management, she interned with Blue BTV, engaging local residents to improve Lake Champlain’s water quality. This experience shifted her focus from data analysis to community interaction, illustrating the need for collaboration. After graduating, she will continue with Blue BTV, seeking to connect deeply with her future environments.