First Year EcoReps

Class Topics

The First Year EcoRep program touches on a variety of sustainability related topics including, climate change, environmental politics, agriculture, and much more. Classes are lecture based, but include activities, such as debates, and committee workdays.

Committee Work

The first year students are split into three committees to complete work throughout the course of the year. The committees include Community Engagement, Zero Waste, and Gardening. Students have the choice of committee based on what interests them! Committees are led by upper class students. 

Leadership Opportunities

As a first year EcoReps, students are able to take what they have learned and educate their peers. By being a first year EcoRep, students are given the opportunity to apply for a hired position within the team.

ResLife

First year EcoReps also take on a leadership role in their residential halls. They act as student representatives for sustainability by creating EcoBoards in their hall and hosting hall programs relating to the environment. First years are encouraged to support and teach their neighbors about sustainable practices to create a more environmental friendly residential hall.

Networking/Career Exploration

By being in the First Year EcoRep program, the first years are exposed to a variety of sustainability oriented organizations in Rochester. This provides them with the opportunity to make connections and develop a better understanding of potential careers in the environmental field.

Early Move In

As a part of ResLife staff, the first year EcoReps are given the opportunity to move in early! During this time, the students attend activities planned by the First Year Coordinators and are able to meet their peers before the semester begins! The first years will also assist in general move in for other first year students.

Field Trips

During pre-orientaton and throughout the academic year, first year students are given the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, while also connecting the experience to something they have learned in class. Previous field trips have included Letchworth State Park and Niagara Falls.

Close Knit Community

The First Year EcoReps are chosen to be in the program for their common interest in sustainability, which creates a tight knit community. Since first year EcoReps can move in early, the other ecoreps are typically some of the first friends made on campus.