The Global Sustainability Scholars program, managed by Penn State Global and Penn State Sustainability, selects 10-15 students annually who will use their study abroad experience to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Scholars engage with the sustainability community at Penn State before departure, build global sustainability knowledge abroad, and apply these skills upon return. Applications are due in mid-September each year; please check the website for details!

As I prepare for my upcoming journey to Kenya’s Masai Mara, I am filled with anxiety, anticipation, and curiosity. This unique opportunity to engage in field research as a Sustainability Scholar aligns perfectly with my personal and academic aspirations. Becoming a Sustainability Scholar is a significant step in my journey toward becoming a doctor with a global perspective.

I hope to leave this experience with a deeper understanding of how environmental, social, and cultural sustainability intersect, as well as gaining firsthand insights into the balance between human communities and the natural world. This information is valuable in addressing public health challenges on a global scale. Personally, I aim to grow as a learner, using this experience to develop a perspective on global sustainability issues. I am particularly interested in exploring how traditional knowledge and practices of the Masai people contribute to ecological preservation. By bridging this understanding with modern approaches, I hope to see how sustainability solutions can be both culturally relevant and scientifically embodied.

As I prepare to spend 10 days immersed in the African Savannah, I can’t help but wonder what life will be like in the research trails camp. “Glamping” amidst the wild is both exciting and nerve-racking. For it’s my first time camping, let alone in such an iconic and untamed landscape. The thought of falling asleep to the sounds of the wilderness and waking up to breathtaking sunrises feels surreal. I am eager to embrace the Mara. Studying lion prides and their intricate social networks will be a beautiful experience, but I also anticipate challenges, such as long days, unpredictable weather, and moments of discomfort. However, I believe that every observation, challenge, and connection will deepen my understanding of ecosystems and their interconnectedness, reaffirming why I chose this path as a Sustainability Scholar.

The chance to study abroad in Kenya’s Masai Mara was irresistible for several reasons. First, I am passionate about nature and community: two aspects at the heart of this program. The Masai Mara, renowned for its rich biodiversity and vibrant culture, offers a unique opportunity to witness the interplay between humans and wildlife in one of the few places in the world where animals and their ecosystems are highly protected. Second, I am deeply interested in the intersection of sustainability and public health. Issues such as climate change, food security, and access to clean water often disproportionately affect marginalized communities. My interest relates closely to several global Sustainable Development Goals, such as goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, and goal 15: Life on Land.

As an aspiring global doctor, the intersection of environmental health and human well-being is important to me. Goal 3 emphasizes ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages. In alignment with goal 15, which seeks to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, I am eager to learn how the conservation of biodiversity in the savannah directly impacts community health. By observing sustainability initiatives in Kenya, I hope to better understand the global challenges these communities face and apply these lessons to my future career as a doctor serving underserved populations. 

One sustainability topic that resonates deeply with me is the concept of sustainable coexistence. As a first-generation college student with Jamaican and African cultural roots, I feel a personal connection to understanding how communities like the Masai harmonize their cultural traditions with the need to conserve the environment. I am particularly excited to explore how this coexistence can inform global efforts to balance development and ecological preservation. As I pack my bags and prepare for Kenya, I am reminded of the privilege and responsibility that come with this opportunity. I hope to gain knowledge in areas such as sustainable agriculture, resource management, and the effects of climate change on health. I have no doubt that by the end of this journey, I will not only grow as a Sustainability Scholar but also as a global citizen and future healthcare professional. Supporting the global goals on this trip allows me to take the first step in contributing to a more inclusive and equitable world.