Entering CODES, I was uncertain about what to expect, as it was an experimental program that would span my entire four years. Although the start was rocky, I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. It taught me valuable lessons about flexibility, completing projects with limited guidelines, and collaborating with a team over an extended period.

CODES provided me with a unique experience that instilled a sense of responsibility, which I don’t think I would have gained as a traditional scholar at SIUE. When selecting a partnership, I was open-minded and willing to learn about each partner. Upon being paired with NGREEC, I was excited to explore nature conservation, an area outside my usual focus. Although I’m not typically drawn to nature, I found myself engaged in learning about environmental issues and the impact of human activities on the world.

Through this experience, I gained insight into the complexities of nature conservation, recognizing it as a “wicked problem” with no straightforward solution. I learned that the best approach is to educate and advise, particularly among younger generations, in the hope that they will make more informed decisions than previous generations.

My experience with CODES has provided me with essential skills and resources to succeed in college, as well as a supportive network of faculty and students. In my future career as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), I will apply the collaboration skills I developed through CODES to design and implement behavioral interventions for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, and other behavioral challenges.

CODES has also helped shape me into a more empathetic and environmentally conscious individual. I gained a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of socioeconomics and environmental health, even in my local community.

In conclusion, my experience with CODES has been transformative, providing me with invaluable skills, knowledge, and perspectives that will benefit me throughout my academic and professional journey. As I move forward, I am committed to applying the lessons I’ve learned to make a positive impact in my community and beyond. I am grateful for the opportunities CODES has afforded me, and I am excited to see where this foundation will take me.