Meet Rashawn Merchant from the Climate and Society Class of 2023
Rashawn Merchant is starting a master’s program in climate and society this fall. He wants to explore new ways to communicate climate change.
Columbia Climate School welcomes new class of students this fall MSc in Climate and Society. This 12-month interdisciplinary program trains students to understand and address the social and environmental impacts of climate change and climate variability.
The upcoming Class of 2023 includes 80 students with diverse backgrounds and career paths, impressive skills, and ambitious plans to help people and the environment.
Planetary Condition will be featured interview Join several of these extraordinary students over the next few weeks. In the Q&A below, you’ll meet Rashawn Merchant, who wants to help make climate change information more accessible to non-scientists, especially in urban environments.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background and how you got interested in studying climate?
Last year, I completed my Bachelor of Environmental Science at the University of Georgia. When I was growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, my family was from Harlem, New York, so I’ve always had a strong relationship with city life. Through my study and research experience in water, I understand the importance of climate change and ensure that people in cities are educated on appropriate ways to build a sustainable future.
Cities are important for a sustainable future because they can lead to an unsustainable future. Urban environments play an important role in overconsumption, waste export and habitat loss. With so many people now living in cities, and even more migrating, these challenges are likely to worsen. Fortunately, this also provides an opportunity to make positive changes, as more residents are able to be informed about positive changes.
What role do you see education playing in tackling climate change? Do you have a different opinion on how to teach climate change?
Education plays an important role in tackling climate change. We are now at a point where most people are aware that climate change is happening; however, no information is available about how the planet is changing and what impacts will occur. I believe that when people understand the impact, they are more willing to participate in the solution and spread the message themselves. I would like to see teaching about climate change become more visual. As a society, we have rapidly moved towards the state where our primary source of information is image-based. While trying to reach a wider audience, it may be beneficial to put more emphasis on graphics rather than wording that might be difficult for people outside the scientific community to understand.
What drew you to the Climate and Society program in particular?
I saw an opportunity to grow. I truly believe that climate change is the greatest modern crisis facing humanity and being able to get an education at a world-renowned institution will give me the best opportunity to improve my skills in order to contribute to the solution.
What are you most excited about while you are here?
I am excited to learn how to interpret climate data in order to present it in a way that is accessible to everyone.
How does the program align with your career goals?
I want to be a climate professor, and that starts with continuing my education. Climate change is an issue that affects everyone, regardless of age, race and socioeconomic status. I want to reach people of all backgrounds in order to work on change globally. I’d love to work in an urban environment, even a day at Columbia University.
congratulations on your receipt Diamond Flower and Bird Fellowship. Can you tell us a little bit about what it means to you?
I am very pleased to be the recipient of the Diamonstein-Spielvogel Scholarship. I think most importantly, it shows a dedication to investing in the future of climate scientists. I am motivated to make the most of this opportunity by excelling in my academics and getting involved in the department.
Do you have anything to add?
I can’t wait to meet my peers!
