This past May 2025, I crossed the stage at the Arts and Culture Centre in St. John’s to receive my Master of Environmental Science (MES) degree from Memorial University. That moment meant everything to me, not just as the end of a chapter, but as a reflection of years of dedication, hard work, and a deep desire to make a difference.

Growing up in Tehran, I was surrounded by a busy city, but my favorite memories were of weekends in Damavand, a quiet mountain village where I first felt connected to nature. Over time, those moments became harder to come by. I remember one summer when our small pool at the cabin couldn’t be filled anymore due to water shortages. It was the first time I truly felt the personal impact of environmental change.

That moment stayed with me, and it’s what eventually brought me to Newfoundland and Labrador. Memorial’s MES program gave me the chance to turn that early sense of loss into action through research, outreach, and community engagement.

During my time in the program, I studied stormwater management, climate adaptation, and GIS. For my research, I explored how green infrastructure can help reduce runoff in St. John’s, using tools like ArcGIS Pro and InVEST. But what really shaped my experience was the chance to bring that science into conversations with real people.

From going door-to-door with Neighbours United to working with Nature Canada, ClimaFacts Atlantic, FES, and the City of St. John’s Youth Engagement Working Group, I saw firsthand how community is at the heart of climate action. These conversations taught me that real change often starts not in a lab, but on a front step—with a story, a question, or simply by listening. My experiences even led to being interviewed twice by CBC, where I had the opportunity to speak about youth involvement in climate action and share what it’s like to engage directly with residents on these important issues.

Convocation felt like more than a ceremony—it was a celebration of how far I’ve come, and a reminder of the people who helped me get here. I’m so proud to be part of a community that cares deeply about its environment and future.

Now, as a graduate, I’m more committed than ever to bridging science and community.
🌱 To continue promoting climate literacy.
🌱 To keep building connections.
🌱 And to help shape a greener, more resilient future—right here in Newfoundland and beyond.

To anyone reading this who wants to get involved, my advice is: start small. Start with a conversation. That’s how all of this began for me.

Thank you, Memorial, for helping me grow as both a scientist and a storyteller. I’m excited for what’s ahead.

— Zeinab Salehiankia