Meet Sage Brown, a passionate rising senior at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, majoring in Civil Engineering with a minor in Sustainability. Hailing from the picturesque Traverse City, Michigan, Sage is on a mission to make a positive impact on our planet, combining a love for the world with a dedication to preserving its resources.
Sage’s journey at Rose has been nothing short of remarkable. As a Noblitt Scholar, they have transcended borders, gaining a unique perspective on sustainability through immersive experiences in countries such as Ecuador, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Peru. Their studies are far from classroom-bound; a recent integrated design project focused on planning an office building in Ireland exemplifies their commitment to blending education with practical application. Sage has also explored notable destinations including France, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Denmark, broadening their understanding of global sustainability practices.
Brown’s internship with the Lochmueller Group solidified their interest in highway design and water resources. “My Introduction to Sustainability class was a game changer for me,” says Sage. It ignited their fervor for sustainability, leading to a transformative summer in Ecuador focused on environmental ecosystems and policies. Sage noted, “Ecuadorians have an incredible awareness of their environmental impact, demonstrating that even communities with limited resources can prioritize sustainability.”
This summer, Sage embarked on another adventure, interning with Ecoswell, a non-governmental organization in Lobitos, Peru. Here, they’re tackling water and sanitation challenges, such as drilling boreholes and installing pump systems for communities affected by 2023’s El Niño flooding. “Ecoswell attracts interns from around the globe,” Sage explains. “Working with such a diverse team has truly enriched my experience, and I’ve had the chance to connect deeply with the local community while honing my Spanish skills.”
Sage has also made room for recreational pursuits—surfing in Lobitos, a hub for surf enthusiasts worldwide. “The waves are tough, but the learning curve is exciting!” they enthuse, showcasing a spirit of adventure that parallels their academic pursuits.
In addition to their hands-on work in sustainability, Sage actively engages in meaningful projects at Rose-Hulman. They are part of a team working to enhance biking accessibility in Terre Haute, showcasing a vision to reduce car dependency. “This project is super close to my heart, and I am eager to see it brought to life,” Brown shared with enthusiasm.
Lastly, Sage balances their academic commitments with roles as a student assistant in the Student Activities office and as part of the Communications & Marketing social media team. Their collective experiences aren’t just about earning a degree; they represent a commitment to a cleaner, safer world for everyone.
Sage Brown might be a student today, but they are undoubtedly a future leader in sustainability, proving that passion coupled with action can lead to real change.
Tags: #Sustainability #CivilEngineering #Environment #WorldNews #Education #Lifestyle
