Global Perspective
The second component in the Grand Challenge Scholars Program is to have a global perspective. The 14 Grand Challenges span the entire planet. To achieve a solution, scholars must work with other cultures and transcend global differences. Please read below about my study abroad experience in Fiji and the my work with the Humanitarian Engineeering Corps.
Study Abroad
Suva, Fiji
In Spring 2017, I studied abroad in Suva, Fiji at the University of the South Pacific. While here I experienced the unique, diverse culture of the South Pacific. I was fortunate to travel to Vanuatu and the North Island of New Zealand as well. What I was most impacted by was the influence of climate change on these small island nations. Ocean acidification, the increasing intensity of tropical cyclones, and rising sea levels were affecting people more than I ever thought. This was easily the most impactful experience of my life. It strengthened my determination to make strides in the renewable energy field because people like those in the Pacific Islands are feeling the impacts of human-caused climate change every day. It is my belief that developed nations such as the United States have a leadership role to play and it is my career goal to harness the powers of renewable energy (such as anaerobic digestion) to mitigate climate change.
Solar Sizing Project
While in Fiji, I had the unique opportunity to work with local students to design a standalone solar system. We analyzed the power loading of a remote Fijian village that was reliant on diesel generators to supply electricity. All diesel is imported to Fiji it is both expensive and supply can fluctuate rapidly. Additionally, the village was concerned about their overall sustainability. We utilized HOMER software to develop a standalone solar system with a battery bank backup. Please see this full report in the Supplemental Documents tab.
EE-301 Energy Supplies
One of the main reasons I studied at the University of the South Pacific was to take EE-301 Energy Supplies. I have always known I want to have a career in renewable energy. So, a class solely on renewable energy in a developing nation was more than enough to get me on a plane. This class was more than I could have imagined. The labs consisted of running diesel engines on coconut oil, configuring solar pumps, testing a hydroelectric turbine, experimenting with fuel cells, and much more. Additionally, I was able to tour the solar farm at the University of the South Pacific (top left) as well as Butoni Wind Farm in Sigatoka, Fiji.
Humanitarian Engineering Corps
Once I returned from Fiji, I wanted to work on global projects. So, I joined the Humanitarian Engineering Corps club at the University of Idaho. We are partnered with a remote community in Corani, Bolivia. A select team visits every summer to work on a clean water supply project. In the Fall 2017 - Spring 2018, I assisted with fundraisers as well as helped with the design of a solar pump for the village.