REU Project

As material-based consumption grows and the “throw-away mentality” of our culture prevails, there is an increasing need for more effective recycling programs. Finite natural resources and the escalating price of virgin materials both contribute to the call for reusing previously extracted material. In recent years, many studies have been conducted in an effort to identify the motivating factors behind recycling behavior. While much progress has been made, there have been few unifying efforts to understand, predict, and influence behavior. My research will involve the development and assessment of a comprehensive model to gain insight into local recycling behavior. The information obtained will be used to develop more successful education plans and recycling strategies. In addition to my work on recycling, I will also be conducting Economic Input Output Life-Cycle Analysis (EIO-LCA) on greenroofs built in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This method of analysis quantifies the environmental burden of a product or service throughout its entire lifespan.

Personal Information

When asked what I want to do with my life, I casually respond, “I’m going to save the world.” To some, this may seem like a pompous delusion, to others, a waste of a good, young mind. However, I am completely devoted to this grandiose pursuit. The current trail that our society is haphazardly blazing is destined to lead us to a dead end. I intend to gain a thorough understanding of nature and human behavior in order to contribute to the cultural overhaul that is so desperately needed.
On a more inventorial note, I am a 21 year old senior at the University of Virginia. I am double majoring in mathematics and civil engineering, with a concentration in environmental engineering. I am the president of the Math Club, an active member of Students for Sustainable Communities, a youth mentor with Children, Youth, and Family Services, and an expert crepe chef. I love working in my garden and riding my bicycle.