Hometown: Sarasota, FL
Major: Environmental Science
Her Campus UWF: What year are you in at UWF?
Marissa Pensirikul: Senior.
Pensirikul and her officer team attending UWF Blizzard Bash. Photo Courtesy: Haley McQueen
HC: Why did you choose to be an environmental science major?
MP: I have always been interested in studying animals. Majoring in Environmental Science has allowed me to learn that every part of the environment is dependent on something else. I realized that to study a certain element of an ecosystem, one needs to understand all the factors that go into having the environment thrive.
HC: What are your plans after graduation?
MP: Graduate school.
HC: As the president of the Student Environmental Action Society (UWF SEAS), what can you tell me about the club?
MP: SEAS is all about promoting environmental awareness both globally and locally. We want others to be informed on how they can help make our planet more sustainable.
Pensirikul networking with the public about the environment at Pensacola’s Green Energy Festival. Photo Courtesy: Haley McQueen.
HC: What is one of your favorite memories with SEAS?
MP: Two years ago, when SEAS partnered with Dogwood Alliance to petition against using biomass as a fuel source in Europe. The ‘Our Forests Aren’t Fuel’ campaign let us use Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax” as our theme. SEAS members made Truffula Trees out of pool noodles and tissue paper that were later put up all around the Cannon Greens. The event definitely caught a lot of attention and was a very fun experience to be a part of.
HC: What kind of experiences have you gained by being involved in SEAS?
MP: I have gained networking experience through working with organizations both locally and nationally on various campus projects. I have been in various officer positions for the past three years and I feel much more confident in my communication and leadership skills.
HC: As an Environmental Science major how do you feel about the recent political actions relating to environmental policy?
MP: I fear for the health of our planet. I fear that without the EPA or other enforced environmental policies that we will be in a very irreversible situation with our natural resources.
HC: Name some of your biggest concerns for the environment.
MP: Pollution, depletion of natural resources, and lack of public awareness towards these issues.
HC: Outside of school and SEAS, what are some things that you like to do?
MP: I enjoy exploring national and state parks. I also have an interest in drawing and photography.
HC: What is your favorite quote?
MP: “Let the world know why you are here, and do it with passion.” – Wayne W. Dyer
HC: If I handed you a plane ticket right now that could take you anywhere in the world, where would you go?
MP: Probably Costa Rica. I really want to visit a tropical rainforest.