Student Spotlight- Daniel Harper
Quick Summary
- Daniel Harper is a second-year student in the Graduate Program of Environmental Policy and Management. After graduation, he hopes to work in natural resources management either with the state or in the private sector.
Tell us about yourself
I had the pleasure of studying economics and environmental studies at UC Santa Cruz. There, I had the opportunity to intern for the center for information technology research in the interest of society, working with drones and remote sensing to complete ecosystem mapping. From environmental economics to law, the EPM program does a great job at teaching us applicable skills and developing a network that further refine our knowledge. I hope to continue my work within natural resource management in the future, whether that be in the state or private sector.
What was your process in finding a Practicum? How did you decide what area you wanted to focus on?
I like to say that curiosity brought me to my practicum. Having just been an intern at the California State Water Resources Control Board, I was interested in gaining perspective from the compliance side of policy. My curiosity landed me an internship with Chevron, where I calculated methane emissions from oil and gas facilities in Colorado. There, I was able to give insight towards compliance with EPA and state regulations, and provide recommendations for streamlined GHG reporting.
You are currently working with the Delta Stewardship Council for your Policy Clinic project. What is the focus of your project and why did you want to work on it?
Our work with the Delta Stewardship Council is geared towards tailoring, practical and financial, information that farmers can use to shift towards regenerative agriculture. I was drawn to this project because of its potential to create and further develop relationships with farmers in the Delta, as well as progress towards a more sustainable and equitable food system.
What has been your favorite memory of your time in the program so far?
Aside from having the opportunity to meet and develop relationships with such passionate peers and professors, my favorite memory has to be taking our core classes. The professor's insight and enthusiasm empowered me to apply what we have learned, and has inspired me to continue work with informed and thoughtful decisions within California legislation.
What are your plans after you graduate from EPM?
After graduating EPM I plan to continue my work surrounding natural resource management. I’d like to move around the U.S., and beyond, to further refine my expertise while also gaining new perspectives that can be applied towards sustainable and equitable environmental policy.
Why did you choose UC Davis?
I chose to attend Davis because of the university's clear passion, influence, and initiative to progress change. The university staff and its surrounding community have provided me with the resources necessary to continue pursuing my academic, professional, and personal goals.