Green chemistry scholarship builds resumes
In today鈥檚 highly competitive job market, students look for ways to make their resume stand out. Students can elevate their resume by participating in the online green chemistry certificate program offered by the University of Washington (UW). The certificate courses give graduates the tools to make a difference and find success by learning to design safer chemicals and industrial processes. This program is a partnership of CU Green Labs and CHEMunity. The CU Boulder Chemistry Department, Environmental Health and Safety, the Graduate School, and Sustainable CU have funded scholarships for CU Boulder students participating in the program.听
Zack Krajnak, a CU Boulder junior majoring in chemistry, received the Green Chemistry Scholarship. When asked why he applied for the scholarship, he stated, "I'm very excited to learn more about green chemistry and how to lessen the impact of all the chemistry we as a society perform on our environment. I think this kind of environmental consciousness is very important for all STEM students and something that should interest every chemistry student here at CU.鈥 Zack is not alone in his excitement for green chemistry. CU Green Labs, in collaboration with members of the Chemistry Department, surveyed students to gauge interest. More than were interested in green chemistry on CU Boulder鈥檚 campus. With businesses and governing bodies facing increasing market and regulatory pressures to use fewer toxic chemicals in their manufacturing processes and products, it should be no surprise that courses like green chemistry are in demand. Up-and-coming professionals with the skills to provide innovative solutions and more sustainable substitutes are needed. agree that sustainability strategies are necessary to be competitive.听
Providing courses specialized in green chemistry or integrating green chemistry into existing courses would also align with the University鈥檚 commitment to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion. Teaching the next generation of scientists to be mindful of the environmental impact of their work can help prevent future generations from exposure to harmful conditions. Green chemistry is about finding improved alternatives. With an integrated approach, policymakers, engineers and other professionals will have the knowledge and tools to make educated and equitable decisions on sustainability. The CU Boulder chemistry teaching labs have been modifying and swapping teaching experiments performed by students with those aligned with green chemistry principles, thus reducing hazardous chemical use and waste generation.听
A possible future for CU Boulder鈥檚 green chemistry education opportunities could include a green chemistry course and integration into existing chemistry courses. For example, introductory chemistry classes reach many CU Boulder students in different majors. Many students could benefit from green chemistry education offerings, especially with entry-level chemistry classes comprised mainly of non-chemistry majors.听听
Check out this video to find out more about green chemistry at CU Boulder. Learn more about the scholarship program and application process for CU Boulder students. If you have questions, email the CU Boulder Green Chemistry Certificate Scholarship Committee at gccs.scholarship@gmail.com.听