There is an urgent need for us to help the general public understand the worth of our natural environment outside of commodities. Like other students, I grew up in awe of the nature around me that many overlooked and throughout my undergraduate career it was clear we cannot only communicate with science. I received my Bachelors in Environmental Science from the University of Lynchburg with a minor in Sustainability Studies. With the longing to make a difference, I began taking business, economic, law, and graphic design courses to help translate what I have learned to non-scientists of the world. I knew there was more to learn outside of my small college which is why the interdisciplinary CCS Masters program excites me. I look forward to taking more serious steps in climate-related issues I am passionate about. This summer I presented my independent thesis research on the socioeconomic benefits of the carbon market at the AESS Conference (Association for Environmental Studies and Sciences) in Portland, OR. I am a part of 3 national sustainability groups and I look forward to collaborating further with this talented group of CCS students.