Sam Spaulding - He/Him
Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Systems Management
Anticipated graduation date: Spring 2025
Where are you from? Describe what your hometown and/or family is like?
I'm from Plymouth, Minnesota.
Why did you choose this major?
Near the end of high school, I knew I wanted to go to the University of Minnesota, but was struggling to decide on exactly what program to apply for. An instructor at the time pointed me to SSM, and I found that this major would allow me to specialize in sustainability while also providing me a solid foundation in other topics such as STEM and economics.
What has been a favorite course, project, or experience in the SSM program so far?
I definitely made the right choice with SSM, since the coursework it had me take was varied in many disciplines and all were interesting. My favorite courses focused on systems for how our most basic materials were made and utilized, and I had a lot of fun in classes such as Recycling (ESPM 3605) and Sustainable Manufacturing (SSM 4407W) that taught me
What student groups or extracurricular activities are you involved in and why?
The University of Minnesota has many opportunities to get involved outside of school, and I had a lot of fun participating in SSM's own club throughout the years! It is a great avenue for people within the major to connect.
What are your career goals after graduation?
I am really passionate about the energy transition, and am aiming my post-graduation career goals to find opportunities in this space. I currently am interning for an electrical cooperative utility in their transmission department, and would like to continue working towards the solutions needed for electrification in the power sector.