Why Peyton Smith studies water in the desert

What is your major/year?
I am a junior studying Environmental Studies with minors in Spanish and Hydrology.

What are you involved in on campus or in Tucson?
Currently, I work at the Community and School Gardens and on the communications team for AIR (don't forget to subscribe to The Dirt)! I also teach environmental science and communications to sixth graders with the Bio/Diversity Project. Tucson is my favorite place on Earth, and I love exploring the desert on my bike. 

What do you like most about working at AIR?
I love working at AIR because I am able to apply my strengths in art, writing, design, and content creation to projects that connect me with the University of Arizona and Tucson communities. Not only do I get the freedom to work on things I am truly passionate about, working at AIR helps me feel close to the rest of the world, especially right now!

What is your favorite topic you’ve learned about as an environmental studies major?
My favorite topic I’ve learned about as an environmental studies major has been and always will be issues about water policy and conservation. Studying water issues in an arid desert is a really unique and valuable experience because I have been able to observe how worlds rise and fall around rivers. 

How do your courses or internships shape your outlook on sustainability?
When it comes to sustainability, my courses and internships have made me realize that our future lies in environmental education. By making environmental science resources available to every person and community, we can provide society with the resources to live sustainably. 

What is something you want to accomplish before you graduate?
Before I graduate, I would love to feel more comfortable and confident speaking Spanish in my day to day life. I always try to incorporate Spanish into my daily life, but I would love to feel comfortable speaking with native speakers!