April Nguyen Wins the M. Buell Award for Outstanding Student in Ecology

Major: Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources

Minor or certificate: Sustainability

Award name: M. Buell Award for Outstanding Student in Ecology

Growing up, I always held a deep appreciation for nature and the world around me. This early connection to the environment inspired me to take AP Environmental Science in high school, where I developed a stronger understanding of ecosystems and the importance of protecting them. That course deepened my passion for ecology and sustainability, leading me to pursue a degree in Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources at Rutgers.

At Rutgers, I’ve had the privilege of wearing many hats and gaining diverse experiences that has enriched my academic journey. I worked as an office assistant and student ambassador for the Office of Academic Programs, interned at the Rutgers Office of Climate Action, and served as the social media coordinator for the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources. I was also a course assistant for Dr. Meixler’s course, Controversies in Sustainability. Research has been a cornerstone of my undergraduate experience, most notably through my George H. Cook Honors Thesis under the mentorship of Dr. Lena Struwe and Dr. Mary Nucci, and as an undergraduate assistant to Ph.D. candidate Emma Waltman.

Beyond the classroom, I co-founded the Rutgers University Birdwatching Association, where I’ve helped connect students to the beauty of New Jersey’s birds.

After graduation, I will spend the summer in Saigon, Vietnam, reconnecting with my family and cultural roots. From there, I plan to pursue a career in the sustainability sector and explore graduate programs that align with my goal of building a more just and resilient future.

I am deeply thankful to my friends and family for their constant support throughout my academic career. I’d especially like to thank Dr. Lena Struwe, Dr. Kimberly Russell, and Emma Waltman for their invaluable guidance, encouragement, and belief in me throughout my undergraduate journey.