Matteo Bellazzini
Pursuing a Bachelor of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering in Environmental and Ecological Engineering specialization
Anticipated graduation date: Spring 2024
Where are you from? Describe what your hometown and/or family is like?
I'm from southwest Wisconsin from a small town called Mount Horeb! I grew up on a small sustainably striving farm, winery and restaurant; which gave me a love for the outdoors, the environment and cooking. Growing up, when I wasn't outside exploring the great outdoors or working on the farm, I spent my time developing my skills as a musician; playing my saxophone or guitar.
Why did you choose Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering?
I chose BBE because it gave me the best crossroad to meet my interests of math, science and the outdoors. By learning more about the environment we live in, I feel my education can and has, only provided me with a better connection to our natural world. And my minor of Business management has allowed me to grow my passion for the world of business alongside my BBE passions.
What has been a favorite course or project in your program?
My favorite project was a UROP project with Professor Jiayu Li. I was given the opportunity to compare low cost nitrate sensors in the hopes of ultimately developing in situ agricultural nitrate sensors. This project hopes to provide modern agriculture/water systems with a better resolution of nitrate runoff and water flow.
What student groups or extracurricular activities are you involved in and why?
I am an avid member of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers; where I serve here at the University as the chairman for the collegiate chapter. I continue my passion for conservation outside of academia as a member of the BHA MN state board as well. These experiences has helped me grow as an outdoorsman, a leader and a conservationist.
What are your career goals after graduation?
After graduation I hope to go into the industry as an environmental engineering consultant. I hope to further sharpen my abilities as such through future internships and research. Last summer I worked with HDR Design Consulting as a Water Resource Engineering Intern. This experience allowed me to gain exposure to water modeling systems and AutoCAD Design systems. While I am still in my search, I hope to grow my abilities this upcoming summer in a position which can grow my passion for business and/or grow my career as a future environmental engineer.