Department of Applied Environmental Science
ENSTU Alumna Builds a Career in Science Communication and Journalism
Katie Brown, an alumna of our Environmental Studies program, now works as a reporter/producer at 90.3 KAZU. She reports on stores related to business, public health, and the environment. While at CSUMB, she was an Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center (UROC) Scholar.
We reached out to Katie to learn more about her career and academic journey, plus her time here at CSUMB. Check out her interview below!
When did you graduate, and what was your major?
I graduated in Spring 2018 with my BA in Environmental Studies.
Did you obtain any additional degrees and/or certifications after receiving your degree at CSUMB? From where?
I got my Master of Science in Science Communication from UC Santa Cruz—I graduated in 2019.
What is your current position? Please provide background information on your job title, duties, and workplace.
I work as a reporter and producer for KAZU 90.3 here on campus! The bulk of my job involves pitching, reporting, and producing stories. This includes going out into the field, interviewing community members, researching/fact-checking (it’s critical that I understand the most important bits), and writing stories that resonate with folks from all different backgrounds. I do weekly newscasts and longer feature stories on a monthly basis.
How did your experience as a CSUMB science student contribute to your current career pathway? Please explain.
A lot of field-based, hands-on classes helped me gain the skills I needed to launch my career—from environmental policy to research methods, and more. I especially enjoyed my service learning class (and taking classes at the Watershed Institute!), SCUBA classes, and ENSTU 280: Environmental Economics and Policy.
During my time in undergrad, I was also a UROC Scholar. Being a Scholar helped me understand how science influences society t and develop my research skills. I got to study in Alaska and Maine, plus collaborate with researchers to conserve church forests in Ethiopia.
What was your favorite class?
ENSTU 384: Service Learning, because I was able to get outside and learn through classes that built community. Those two-way learning experiences were instrumental to my career path.
Are there any specific professional/technical skills that you gained while at CSUMB that have helped contribute to your current success?
While at CSUMB, I developed a strong foundation of professional and academic skills that have contributed to my success and prepared me for graduate school. Through UROC, I gained experience with academic collaboration, field research, and “show, don’t tell” writing (shoutout to Natasha Oehlman), which helped me land jobs and fellowships. I also appreciated the camaraderie! My time at CSUMB opened my mind to new ways of thinking and changed my worldview. I’m grateful to mentors, including Alison Haupt and Monica Galligan, as well as professors like Laura Lee Lienk, for their care and guidance.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Being invited into people’s worlds and learning about everything I possibly can!
Have you had any recent accomplishments that you would like to share with us? (publications, awards, etc.)
My reporting has been picked up by the California Report, KQED’s statewide radio news program.
Anything else you’d like to share?
There’s nothing hotter than an otter!
Congratulations on your career, Katie! You can check out her radio stories here.