Erin Hovendon

What’ve you enjoyed most about your area of study? Was there a particular discovery, new skill or way of thinking, or insight that you found especially valuable? Please share an example from your favorite class or experience.

Studying public policy has given me the tools to evaluate climate adaptation projects holistically. I’ve particularly enjoyed analyzing historical trends related to the development of energy policy: while learning about the founding of the EPA in 12.385 (Science, Politics, and Environmental Policy), for example, I came to understand how the public’s perception of climate risk can serve as an impetus for policy progress. Similarly, my courses in economics helped me develop a broader skillset for analyzing the impacts of novel technology.

How does the knowledge from this field, or your interest in it, combine with your other major or minor studies at MIT?

Understanding policy is vital for accessibility and equity, especially in environmental engineering: projects like wind farm siting, coastal infrastructure design, and waterway protection inherently include public space and common resources. Through this minor, I can envision my graduate studies and future work as an engineer within a broader social and environmental context.

An MIT education includes study in the scientific, technical, social science, arts, and humanities fields. How do you think that wide range of knowledge and perspectives will be valuable to you – for your career success and for your enjoyment of life?

I think all engineers benefit from a well-rounded education inclusive of the arts and humanities. My studies in SHASS have strengthened my ability to communicate my values as well as my scientific work, and I feel prepared to engage in conversation with students and professionals in and outside of STEM fields. I also love history and art, and I believe great engineering draws from both.

What are your plans for the future?

I’m pursuing a master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering with a focus on fluid dynamics. Ultimately, I hope to work at the intersection of clean technology, public resource allocation, and human and ecological health, bridging the gap between scientific solutions and climate policy.