About Me

My name is Monica Backs and I am a fourth-year student at The Ohio State University. I am pursuing a major in Ecological Engineering and a minor in Environment, Economics, Development and Sustainability (EEDS) and I grew up in Elyria, Ohio, which makes me a proud Pioneer turned Buckeye.

I classify myself as a runner, hiker, yogi, dog-lover, and nature enthusiast. I am also a College Mentors for Kids Vice President, OSU football fan, and dedicated student. Growing up near Cleveland, I turned into a big Indians and Cavaliers fan and if I’m not studying in Columbus or enjoying sports in downtown Cleveland, I travel to Warsaw, Indiana to visit family and spend time on Chapman Lake.

I looked into engineering for the same reason as many others; I have an interest in math and science. I enjoy hands-on activities and any circumstance that puts me in a position to learn something new. I am very curious and I desire to know how and why things work the way they do, while also wanting to make them better.

Another reason I was drawn to engineering is for the social aspect of the career. Teamwork plays an extremely important role in the success of a project on which an engineer works and I have always enjoyed being part of a group. I love to collaborate with others and listen to their ideas, to brainstorm as a team and reach the best compromise.

The biggest factor in my decision to become an ecological engineer was my interest in the outdoors. I am a nature lover and explorer and am intrigued by all living things. I would rather be outside than anywhere else and I have always found myself happiest watching the sunset or taking a hike through the woods. I am passionate about sustaining the earth we inhabit and I am always looking for ways to live an eco-friendly lifestyle. I want to keep our earth clean, safe, and ultimately I want to keep it beautiful.

Ideally, my degree in ecological engineering will allow me to pursue a career in remediation. Growing up near the Black River, I have become interested in wetland and riverbank reconstruction. My time with Lorain County Metro Parks has allowed me to view this rebuilding process firsthand, and I believe I have truly found my niche. At my age, many people are just figuring out what they want to do, but I think I have always known. I have a passion for helping the people around me and I want to make a difference in the world.

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