Environment and Climate Career Trek Highlights Focus on Student Success

Johns Hopkins SAIS students looking to pursue careers in environment and climate issues met and networked with experienced hands in these fields during a career trek on November 11, 2022. During sessions held in person and online, some 35 students interacted with staff members from World Resources Institute, the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and Rocky Mountain Institute (a Colorado-based nonprofit focused on cutting greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating the transition to clean energy).

“The Environment and Climate trek was an amazing opportunity to meet SAIS alumni working on the front lines of the climate crisis,” said Chetan Hebbale, MA ‘23. “It was great to be back in person to walk the offices and form personal connections with the employers and fellow students.”

The Office of Global Careers at Johns Hopkins SAIS is dedicated to preparing SAIS students for successful careers after graduation. Among the initiatives the office deploys towards this goal are career treks, which often feature alumni speakers and presenters. Participating students benefit from insider perspectives on target roles and industries through experiential learning and networking opportunities.

Across the three SAIS campuses in Washington, DC; Bologna, Italy; and Nanjing, China, the Global Careers team also runs a variety of other programs, including individual coaching, internship placements, employer presentations, and interview preparations. SAIS alumni play a significant role in the success of the Global Careers team, serving as vital resources for students seeking mentoring and networking support.

"This Environment and Climate trek was a great way to learn about the industry and potential employers,” said Giulia Parli, MAIR ’23. “SAIS alumni were extremely helpful in providing industry insight; and visiting each organization in person was invaluable for networking and learning about the respective work environments. I’m grateful to have been a part of the experience.”

The Office of Global Careers co-organized the November 11 trek with a student group, the SAIS Energy and Environment Club.