From the classroom to the coast: An environmental conservation major's journey at UNH

Growing up in New Hampshire, this senior knew early on that a career path protecting the natural world was in her future. What was unknown was exactly where that path would lead. Senior Julia Briggaman, an environmental conservation and sustainability major with a minor in marine policy, reflects on UNH experiences like conducting seal ethograms on Appledore Island, identifying a humpback whale by name, discovering a passion for marine policy, and learning to embrace uncertainty along the way. 

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Why did you choose UNH? 
It felt like the perfect fit for who I am and what I value. Growing up in New Hampshire, I spent much of my childhood outdoors, hunting, fishing, kayaking, skiing, and exploring the coast. These experiences, along with being raised with a strong appreciation for conservation, sparked my passion for environmental science. 

UNH stood out because of its strong environmental and marine science programs, hands-on learning opportunities, and proximity to diverse ecosystems, making it the perfect place to pursue my education and prepare for a career in conservation. 

What's something about UNH that most people don't know? 
The incredible number of opportunities available beyond the classroom. From clubs and campus events to research, internships, volunteer experiences, and jobs, there are endless ways to get involved and grow. My time at UNH has helped shape who I am by allowing me to explore new interests, deepen my passion for ocean conservation, and gain experiences that have influenced myself as a person and my goals for the future. 

What advice would you give your freshman self? 

I’d tell her that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. College is about exploring, growing, and discovering what truly matters to you. Take every opportunity that comes your way, even if it feels intimidating. Apply for the internship, join the club, take the class, and say yes to new experiences.

Some of the most meaningful moments of my college career came from stepping outside my comfort zone. Especially in the environmental field, there are so many paths to explore, so embrace the uncertainty and trust that each experience will help guide you toward the future that’s right for you. 

What's your favorite course you've taken at UNH? 
Taking Marine Mammal Biology at the Isles of Shoals was truly life-changing, with incredible professors, new friendships, and unforgettable hands-on learning. Living and learning on Appledore Island allowed me to fully immerse myself in marine science from the excitement of boating to Appledore, to conducting seal ethograms, and dodging gulls on the beautiful coastal shore. The excitement of being surrounded by people who shared my passion for the ocean created an incredible sense of community. This experience deepened my love for marine conservation and gave me a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for my future as a marine biologist. 

Why did you choose your major? 
I’m majoring in environmental conservation and sustainability (ECS) because I knew I wanted a career focused on protecting the environment, but I wanted the flexibility to explore my interests. As a freshman, I was torn between zoology and marine biology, so ECS gave me a strong foundation while allowing me to discover my path. Through a semester-long environmental policy project on North Atlantic right whales, I found my passion for marine conservation and policy, which lead me to pursue a minor in marine policy. I love that ECS allows students to explore different areas, gain hands-on experience, and find the field that truly inspires them. 

Where have you found a sense of community at UNH? 
One of the biggest places I’ve found a sense of community through UNH is outside of campus. 

I love meeting people who also go to UNH and instantly finding connections through shared classes, experiences, friends, or places we’ve been. Whether through a summer job, internship, or everyday life, these connections make UNH feel like a family that extends far beyond Durham. No matter where you go, you’re likely to find another Wildcat. 

Reflecting on your time at UNH, what's an experience that stands out to you? 
Marine Mammal Biology at the Isles of Shoals stands out the most. The moment I saw my first Humpback whale breach is something I will never forget. After doing fluke identification the day before, we were able to identify the whale as “Sedge” in that moment. Watching a whale that I could recognize by name brought everything I had worked for at UNH to life. It deepened my love for the ocean, strengthened my passion for marine conservation, and further excited me for the field I chose to pursue. 

What's your favorite spot in Durham? 
The big reading room in Dimond Library. I’ve spent countless hours there, and it has become one of the places I associate most with my time at UNH. Whether it’s a crisp fall afternoon or snowy winter day, grabbing a coffee from Zeke’s and settling by the windows to study or enjoy the quiet atmosphere is one of my favorite campus traditions. 

What are your aspirations for the future? 
My goal for the future is to build a career studying and protecting marine mammals through research and conservation. I hope to move south after graduation to continue working in marine environments. UNH is helping me reach these goals through a strong foundation in environmental science, hands-on field experiences, and opportunities like Shoals Marine Laboratory and my work at the Seacoast Science Center. 

Tell us about a part of your college experience that wasn't what you thought it was going to be. 

I came to UNH thinking I needed to have my entire future planned out, but I learned that college is about exploring, growing, and discovering what truly inspires you. Through experiences like finding my passion for marine biology, discovering yoga, embracing traveling, and learning to take more opportunities, I gained confidence and learned to embrace uncertainty. UNH has not only prepared me for my career but has helped shape who I am today. 

Have you received any scholarships and what have you been able to do or accomplish at UNH because of them? 
I am incredibly grateful for the scholarships I have received from UNH and outside organizations. Their generosity has allowed me to continue my education, pursue opportunities that shaped my future, and focus on building a career in environmental conservation. They have made a life-changing impact by making my dreams more achievable and reducing the financial barriers of my college journey. I hope to honor their support by using my education to make a meaningful difference in protecting our marine ecosystems.