The USF MSEM program is made for working professionals, and we always love learning about the work students are doing outside the classroom. We recently connected with second-year student Calvin Saribay to hear about his current internship with the City of Millbrae. Calvin came to USF after working as a hydrogeologist following his graduation from the University of Nevada Reno in 2020.
What is your current role with the City of Millbrae? Tell us a little about a day-in-the-life of your job.
My current role with the City of Millbrae is Environmental Programs Intern. My days consist of assisting the Senior Environmental Program Manager as well as the Environmental Programs Coordinator with tasks related to the various environmental programs in the city of Millbrae.
One thing that I have been involved with is Senate Bill 1383 implementation and compliance, which is a statewide ordinance regarding sorting landfill, recycling, and organic waste. This bill was signed into law in 2016 and is aimed at combating climate change and reducing landfill methane emissions. So far, I’ve mainly been involved in achieving compliance from commercial businesses and multi-family residences within the city of Millbrae.
Other things I’ve been involved with are community outreach and engagement and the electric home appliance rebate program.
What have you learned in the MSEM program that helps you in this role – and vice versa?
Getting a firsthand look at how local governments take responsibility for environmental solutions as well as getting the community involved in and participating in environmental-related programs is what I find valuable about this role. It has made me curious about civic engagement and how that relates to environmental management. If there are courses in the MSEM program closely tied to this, I’ll be excited to take them.
How did your past academic studies and professional experiences help you prepare for the MSEM program?
My past academic experiences prepared me for the MSEM program by instilling a strong work ethic and good time management skills. My undergraduate degree was in hydrogeology, so I got exposed to a lot of environmental science concepts through that coursework. That’s helpful in the MSEM program.
How are your future career aspirations evolving based on what you’re learning (in school and/or on the job)?
I think my future career aspirations are a moving target. I have prior work experience in water resources and hydrogeologic engineering, but I like using the courses I choose to take in the MSEM program as feelers for what I may be interested in pivoting into. So far, some things that have piqued my interest are urban climate resilience as well as sustainable manufacturing practices.
What advice do you have for new or prospective MSEM students?
Start thinking about potential master’s project topics early. Taking a look at past master’s projects is really helpful. Also, lean on your classmates for help and collaboration. When the subject matter is difficult, it’s easy to spin your wheels trying to figure it out on your own. But you’ll find that others are in the same boat and would also benefit from collaborating with you.
