CAFNR Senior Spotlight – Danielle Rotert

Rotert is a senior graduating in May with a degree in environmental sciences




Rotert

Why did you choose to come to the University of Missouri? Why did you choose to pursue a degree in environmental sciences?

I decided come to Mizzou since a lot of my family including my mother, brother and multiple cousins have gone to Mizzou or currently go to Mizzou. I chose Environmental Sciences as my major because I wanted a career where I could be out of an office as much as possible and I love learning about different animals, plants and policies.

Were you involved in any extracurricular activities? If so, could you talk about those experiences?

While I’ve been at Mizzou, I have been involved with my sorority Kappa Alpha Theta on our executive board, CAFNR ambassadors and CAFNR student council.

Did you partake in any research, study abroad or internship opportunities? What did you enjoy about those experiences?

For the past two summers, I have been able to intern at Burns and McDonnell, an engineering consulting firm in Kansas City, as an Environmental Science intern. I also spent two and a half years working at the Soil Health Assessment as a lab assistant aiding people in their soil research.

What is a favorite memory you have during your time in CAFNR?

My favorite memory of CAFNR I have had came this last semester. I was able to take a floral design course through the college which was my favorite class I have been able to take while at Mizzou.

How did your degree program prepare you for the future?

My degree in Environmental Sciences has done a fantastic job in preparing me for my future job. With my degree, you get such a great basis for every necessary science from botany to soil science to mammalogy. Environmental Sciences is also a great program because you can really personalize your track to fit your needs and interests.

What are your future plans?

I will be starting as an Assistant Environmental Scientist at Burns and McDonnell, where I have been interning, starting at the end of May. I will be working in their Natural and Cultural Resources group out of Kansas City. I will be performing endangered plant and animal surveys, wetland delineations and working on permitting.