Brian Kim now Master’s Degree in Sustainability Management (SUMA) student, was already working as a health physicist in Columbia University's School of Environmental Health and Safety when he applied to the SUMA program to further integrate his interests with climate solutions. It focused on promoting sustainability within university research facilities.
![A man wearing yellow safety clothing gives a thumbs up](https://sotp.nyc3.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Brian-Kim.jpeg)
No stranger to multitasking, Kim worked at the College of Engineering Leadership Academy and Center for Civic Engagement while studying nuclear engineering during her undergraduate education at Oregon State University. This varied experience helped him navigate his way to New York City and his SUMA program. As a current student, Kim is an active member of various campus organizations including: relief, build it green and electric vehicle association.
Kim plans to complete the SUMA program in spring 2025. Although he continues to explore opportunities in this field, his main goal is to find the best way to express his passion for the planet and make a significant impact in solving the climate crisis. In the Q&A below.
What made you decide to apply to the SUMA program?
I always knew I had a passion for climate research, but I didn't know how to express it. This passion was sparked by the widespread natural disasters we witnessed all too often. Before moving to New York in 2021, I lived in Oregon, where at least one major wildfire is expected every summer. After relocating, I experienced the other side of the coin: Hurricane Ida, which hit New York City in September 2021.
This opened my eyes to two very real things in life. (1) Never move into a basement apartment in New York City. No matter how good a deal it seems, you're bound to regret it if there's a New York City storm. (2) The powerful effects of climate change are right under our noses and have been for quite some time. Without climate action, the climate will continue to get worse.
We could not sit idly by and watch a continuous cycle of environmental disaster unfold. I felt an obligation to take action, and I was fortunate to already be working at Columbia University when I discovered the sustainability graduate program. It was exactly what I was looking for to expand my knowledge about sustainability and find my place in climate change solutions. The second season has ended, but I have no regrets at all!
How did you first become interested in natural science?
When I was an undergraduate, I had a wonderful professor who taught me „Global Change and Earth Science,'' and I remember looking forward to that class every week. I also worked as an event specialist during my undergraduate years at Oregon State University, organizing large-scale service events for the community. I especially remember Earth Day of Service, when communities in Oregon showed up to support local conservation and restoration projects. I think it was these positive experiences that really ignited that passion. I'm ready to take it even further in Colombia.
Can you explain a little more about your responsibilities in your current role and what it's like to work in the Environmental Health and Safety department?
Basically, as a health physicist, I am responsible for ensuring the safe use of radioactive materials for research. This involves performing surveys, testing, waste management, data analysis training, and many other tasks that provide guidance and reassurance to the research community.
Alongside my research, I am working to reduce the material footprint of research related to radioactive materials at Columbia University. This primarily includes, but is not limited to, monitoring and minimizing air emissions, managing and minimizing waste, and providing resources and guidance to researchers. I am also part of the Environmental Health and Safety Department's Sustainability Working Group. This working group focuses on reducing the environmental footprint of the entire Colombian research community.
Do you still have your favorite course? Or are there any notable highlights from that time?
I really enjoyed the “Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage” course offered by the Master of Science in Sustainability program. It opened my mind to so many details and intricacies that I didn't even know existed before taking this course. david goldberg He did an excellent job of explaining all the opportunities and challenges associated with carbon capture and utilization, and sparked my passion for the field in general.
I also took „.“Sustainability and urban form”With course Alison Bridges during the summer. This was my first class as a student in the program, and it was a really fun class to start my experience with. We also went on field trips to the Gowanus Canal and Newtown Creek to learn more about in-situ restoration in these areas.
Do you have any advice for current or new students in the sustainability program?
Please participate as your schedule allows. There are a lot of really cool events that are great for meeting people in the sustainability program, but also exploring your own interests in the field. This is a good way to gain hands-on experience that you wouldn't get in a regular classroom environment.
of Master of Science in Sustainability Management This program, offered by the School of Professional Studies in partnership with the Climate School, attracts current and aspiring leaders who want to pursue management careers at the intersection of business and the environment. Designed for.