Meet Julia Mencher, who graduated from Northwestern University in 2023 with a major from the Department of History and an ad-hoc major in the Environmental Policy and Culture (EPC) Program.
What inspired you to pursue study in the Environmental Policy and Culture (EPC) Program?
Growing up on the outskirts of Washington D.C. has profoundly shaped my perspective on both the social and physical aspects of environmental issues. Engaging in social justice activism from an early age, I gained an appreciation for dissecting international and domestic issues. But, witnessing the city’s diverse landscapes—from suburban developments to polluted rivers—underscored the tangible effects of environmental degradation. At Northwestern, I started with the intention of being an Environmental Science and History double major. I quickly found that while a fantastic program, Environmental Science wouldn’t fully allow me the space to expand on diverse interests like Environmental Anthropology or Wildlife Law. Instead of curbing my curiosity, I made my own program. Embarking on an ad hoc major in Environmental Policy and Culture (EPC), I was able to establish a curricular program that allowed me to explore a diverse environmental-focused course load that equally weighted hard sciences, humanities, and social sciences. My journey melds a passion for history with an environmental focus, seeking to unearth narratives often overlooked, and has led me to continue these studies beyond my undergraduate career.
How did your studies in the EPC Program impact you personally and/or professionally?
My studies in the EPC Program have deeply influenced both my personal and professional growth. Academically, they provided me with a nuanced understanding of environmental issues from interdisciplinary perspectives. As an undergraduate student, I worked as a Leopold Fellow in theNicholas D. Chabraja Center for Historical Studies. There, I was able to specialize in a project focusing on environmental change in Central Italy. Because of EPC, I could offer the professor I collaborated with a blend of scientific insights, drawn from my earth science background, while also fulfilling the role of a historical research assistant in a conventional manner. Personally, the program instilled in me a profound appreciation for the intersectionality of environmentalism and the importance of amplifying traditionally underrepresented narratives. Pursuing EPC as an Ad Hoc major also pushed me to advocate for myself and step outside of my comfort zone to reach the academic goals I knew were attainable. Professionally, my EPC studies equipped me with the skills and insights necessary to navigate complex socio-economic and environmental landscapes, particularly relevant to my current work with the Cook County Government. They also have led me to pursuing roles and opportunities where I actively contribute to initiatives aimed at advancing environmental justice and sustainability.
Is there a specific course, event, or memory associated with the EPC program that sticks out to you from your time at NU?
During my time at Northwestern, one standout experience from the EPC program was taking American Environmental History with Professor Keith Woodhouse during my freshman winter. From the outset, I knew that I had found something that clicked for me. Investigating and learning about Environmental History combined my research interests in a way I had never thought to before, and opened up a whole academic world to explore. Professor Woodhouse, not only an exceptional lecturer, became a pivotal mentor throughout my academic journey at Northwestern. His guidance extended beyond the classroom, persisting even after graduation, as he consistently supported my career and intellectual pursuits. Without having taken American Environmental History so early on, I simply wouldn’t be where I am today. Dr. Melissa Rosenzweig also provided me invaluable advice while building my EPC major. They are a fantastic and steadfast mentor for all students pursuing diverse environmental topics at Northwestern and a similarly fantastic educator. More than anything, those two faculty members (whom I took six classes with!) stand out as a crucial part of what makes EPC sing.
What are you working on right now that excites you the most, OR are there any accomplishments you would like to share?
Currently, I am working as a Cook County Government Budget Fellow in the Department of Budget and Management Services through Northwestern’s Public Interest Program. I work directly with the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds and have enjoyed getting to learn about all of the counties ARPA and Equity Fund initiatives that serve and better my local community. Looking towards the horizon, I’m excited to get involved with more environmental and public history facing roles.
What fun fact do you want to share with the Northwestern community?
I recently started a facebook group dedicated to exchanging secondhand books in Lakeview, Chicago and surrounding communities! Shout out to Lakeview Little Libraries, everyone is welcome to join 🙂 According to TCK publishing, each year, we dispose of over 16,000 truckloads of books, so buy second hand!!
How do you enjoy spending your free time?
In my spare time, I love rock climbing and running. When I’m not at the gym, you’ll catch me trying out new crafts, enjoying improv shows or classes, and diving into a good book. I also freelance as a graphic designer!