Jen Horn
"I’ve been able to connect directly with sustainability-oriented organisations through guest lecturers on some of our modules, and recommendations from CES academics."
Course
Sustainable Development MScEntry year
2018I decided to study for the MSc in Sustainable Development at Surrey because I’d been working on a sustainability venture in my home country, the Philippines, for four years. I’d begun to question the impact of the work we did, as well as my own lack of academic understanding of sustainable development. I wanted to ‘up my sustainability game’ and bring new learning and insights to my work.
I run MUNI, which aims to cultivate a community for mindful living through learning events and information on sustainable lifestyles and business. I hope to raise consciousness of the impact of the way we shop, eat, travel, and do business – enabling individuals and organisations to make better decisions for themselves, their community and the planet.
One of the reasons I chose to come to the University of Surrey was the fact that it has a dedicated Centre for Environment and Sustainability (CES). The MSc in Sustainable Development also seemed to have a good balance of theory and application. Having gone through most of my modules now, I really appreciate the interdisciplinary approach which combines elements of psychology, environmental science, engineering, corporate sustainability, economics, and design.
Another thing that attracted me to the course was the opportunity to experience industry through a placement. Although I opted not to pursue a formal placement, I’ve been able to connect directly with sustainability-oriented organisations through guest lecturers on some of our modules, and recommendations from CES academics.
When I graduate, I hope to share what I’ve learned with others in the Philippines through MUNI’s public events, informative online content, and through Employee Eco-Engagement and sustainability leadership development within corporations as well.
I believe that the critical shifts for sustainable development don’t happen by us waiting for governments to pass policies, or for businesses to create better products, or for our friends and families to ‘get with the programme’. They happen when we look at ourselves, at the places we live and work, and ask ourselves: ‘What more can I do?’ For me, studying at Surrey was part of the answer. While I still have a lot to learn, and maybe even more questions than when I started, I feel like I’ve taken a big step towards creating the world I want.
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