Volunteer of the Month-Brittney Hartzell '15

It was the connections Brittney Hartzell '15 cultivated during her time on campus as an Environmental Science major that has not only made her appreciate her own career path but prompted her to help current students do the same.

Now a conservation landscaping project manager for Native Creations, Hartzell has been invited back by several professors to judge research posters, serve as an alumni panelist, and present to several classes about navigating career opportunities in the environmental field. She says that she enjoys helping students navigate the growing environmental industry and the many opportunities it now affords new grads to make a living while pursuing their passions and carving their own niche in the field. 

"[You don't have to] go by the book to create the career of your dreams," said Hartzell. "I enjoy seeing all the changes on campus, catching up with old professors, and remembering the many walks back and forth between classes and other campus activities during my time at Bloomsburg."

It was the series of connections she made as a student that helped get her started in her field, not only with her professors but with her work-study supervisor, who encouraged volunteering in her field to gain experience and start a professional network.

"I feel that it's important to give back to the school that gave me the opportunities to live out my passions and supported me in my career, even post-graduation," said Hartzell. "I keep in touch with my former professors and have worked closely with them professionally."

Hartzell says that what impresses her the most about current students is their eagerness to approach their career and professional development experiences.

"I get to see all the awesome research that students are working on [and] I'm always impressed by the students' eagerness to get involved and gain experience. I can see the enthusiasm they have for their career."

For Hartzell, volunteering is not only the opportunity to give back, but a chance to influence the trajectory of her industry.  She encourages fellow alumni to try volunteering if they've not already."

"Going back to campus always gives you that fresh perspective of where you came from, and it's very rewarding to help others navigate their careers as you did. These students are our future colleagues; the more opportunities they have to grow and expand on their interests, the better. [They] could be great assets to your company one day!"
 

If you are interested in volunteering, please let us know.