G’day mates! My name is Abigail. I grew up in a small town in Vermont with my mom, dad, brother, and two pugs, Peanut and Lulu. Growing up, I loved spending time outside hiking, swimming, and biking with friends. One of my favorite places to explore was the lake nearby, Lake Champlain, because it was a place where I could watch amazing things up close, like tadpoles developing into frogs. It was also the place where I saw the effects of water pollution up close for the first time, making the lake I love sick. This inspired me to learn about ways to protect streams and lakes in the environment.
I studied chemistry and environmental science at Skidmore College in New York to learn about ways to protect freshwater bodies. I learned that water pollution is a challenge people all around the world face, so I figured to solve a problem that big I would need to work with people from all around the world. I applied for a Fulbright grant in Australia so I could collaborate with environmental engineers working to improve water quality. I collaborate with environmental engineers to design new wastewater treatment systems that prevent pollutants from entering lakes and streams. Through this research, I’ve learned how to become a better problem solver, especially when it comes to problems in the environment. I can’t wait to share these skills and more about my experiences in Australia with you!
Want to learn how you could be a Fulbright Scholar like me? The Fulbright Program is the United States government's flagship international exchange program. Fulbrighters foster mutual understanding between the United States and partner nations, share knowledge across communities, and improve lives around the world. Learn more by clicking here!
