Sofia Stergio
A passion for the planet
How a passion for music and sustainability led Sofia to study a combined degree in arts and science at Sydney.
Graduating in 2022, Sofia is on a path to answer some of the complex environmental challenges we currently face. We caught up with Sofia to unpack what's involved in her role as an environmental consultant at EMM.
I chose to study at the University of Sydney because of the flexibility to combine an arts major with a science degree.
I knew that I wanted to work in the environmental space, but I also wanted to study music.
I loved that my degree equipped me for my career in environmental science, but also allowed me to explore my passion for music, without taking the five years of a double degree.
I work as a graduate environmental consultant at EMM Consulting. My company specialises in providing advice on complex environmental challenges.
I work in our planning team where we assess the environmental impacts of projects like wind farms, solar farms, waste-to-energy facilities and pumped hydro projects.
An average day involves writing reports and speaking with clients and colleagues. Sometimes I visit sites too. I spent a week last year on the top of a mountain with one of our ecologists surveying for birds and owls.
My degree taught me how to be curious and to always ask 'why'
“My degree taught me how to be curious and to always ask 'why'”
This has helped me in my role as a consultant. It's only by asking questions and being curious that you can understand a situation and provide the best advice.
I knew I wanted to work in sustainability but I wasn't exactly sure where. I would talk to friends and family, some who worked in the space and some who didn’t, and often they could set me up to chat with someone they knew who worked in the industry.
I chose to work in consulting because of the variety of experiences you get exposed to in all different industries - it's provided me with a good basis for my career.
I've enjoyed working closely with my project managers. They are super experienced and coordinate large teams on complex projects, yet they always take the time to develop and champion me. They have valued my contributions and opinions. Plus, I think it's cool that I've been able to play a part in the renewable energy transition.
Learning to ask for help! Sometimes I've been scared to speak up or worried my questions will bother someone, but I've learned that asking questions is so important - it's the quickest way to grow and you never stop learning.
I would say - good choice!
There is so much opportunity in the environmental and geosciences space.
My top tips are first, to go on any overseas and regional trips that you can within your degree. These give such great perspective to the content you learn and will be one of your university highlights.
Second, join an industry organisation. This will help you understand the industry, help you meet people and may even land you a job. I would recommend EIANZ for environmental students.
Thirdly, be nice to people and don’t be 'anonymous'. You never know who you could meet and what doors might be opened.
