Suvi Birch, 2021-2022 Pepper Scholar

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am originally from Arlington, Texas. I'm currently a sophomore at the University of Arizona studying environmental science, with an emphasis in soil, air, and water. Right now, on campus, I'm involved in CALES Ambassadors and Students for Sustainability. I'm going to be a Gato for Bear Down Camp this upcoming school year, and I’m a student employee at the Core Salad Bar. I also want to get involved in research on campus and maybe some intramural sports.

Growing up, I always liked being around nature, especially in school. My favorite parts of the day were when we would go outside during recess or PE. My mom's side of the family is from Finland and the Finnish culture is centered around nature, so my grandparents are very active outdoors. We go hiking, orienteering, biking, and swim in the lakes. My senior year of high school, I took an AP environmental science course and learned specifically how humans are impacting the environment. That’s when I realized I wanted to have a career in environmental science.

Why did you decide on the environmental science major?

When choosing my major, I struggled between environmental engineering and environmental science. I know both are involved in lab research and field work. Personally, I am more interested in field work. I know the U of A, that's part of the reason I chose it, has a wonderful environmental science program. The emphases that we can choose within the major are helpful in narrowing down our specific interests. So yes, I am very excited to continue with my major.

What have been some of your biggest challenges, especially during the pandemic?

During the pandemic, being an out of state student and doing my first semester online from home was my biggest challenge. The uncertainty around if I would come to campus at all for my freshman year was worrying. I was supposed to visit campus the summer before freshman year, but the trip was cancelled because of the pandemic. I didn't know what I was getting into at all whenever I started at the U of A, and that was very scary for me. My CALES ASEMS peer mentor really helped me during this time. We would have zoom meetings and she would tell me what to expect. My advisor also gave me valuable advice, so I developed a good support system going into college.

How does the Dr. Ian Pepper Scholarship help you reach your goals?

The Dr. Ian Pepper Scholarship has personally helped me a lot especially during the pandemic. Right now, I have two part time jobs and then during the school year I have one part time job, but it is not enough to cover my tuition for a whole academic year. This scholarship has taken some of that financial burden off my parents and I so that I can continue my education.

Words of advice?

Try to stay present in the moment throughout college. Every single person that I have talked to, that has either graduated or is close to graduating says how fast time flies. It's only four years, and for some of us is even shorter. I would just say be grateful and really try to stay present and make as many good memories as you can while you're still in college.