Undergraduate Student Spotlight
Nicole Mercier '27, from Amherst, NH, is a B.S. environmental conservation and sustainability major with a minor in marine biology. Nicole shared her experience as an undergraduate student in COLSA. She is one of COLSA's ambassadors for the 2025-26 academic year.
Why did you choose UNH?
Nicole Mercier: I chose UNH because it checked the vast majority of my boxes for what I was looking for in a school. As a sustainability major it was important for me to attend a university that did not simply teach about sustainability but rather implemented and practiced the core values on campus. I also was extremely drawn to the location with the beach nearby as well as Great bay, Oyster River, and the mountains. College woods on campus was another draw for me as it allows for a lot of field work to be done right on campus.
What is your major and what do you love about it?
Nicole: My major is Environmental Conservation and Sustainability. I love this major because it has become increasingly important in our world. I know that when I leave college I will be making crucial changes and will help develop solutions for the future of our planet. I also take pride knowing that I could become the advocate the next generation needs in order to preserve the Earth’s depleting resources.
What's the best academic experience you've had at UNH?
Nicole: My favorite academic experience would have to be my field methods course. This class brought us outside for 3 hours each week learning forest ecology and surveying. I never had a course that took place entirely outdoors which was an adjustment but the overall experience of being immersed into nature was unbeatable.
What's the best experience you've had at UNH outside the classroom/lab?
Nicole: One of my favorite experiences outside of the classroom would be attending UNH hockey games with my family. My brother attended UConn so when UNH and UConn have a game matchup my whole family attends. I love the sense of family I have gained at UNH while also being able to bring my parents into the exciting sports rivalries we have.
How is UNH preparing you to achieve your goals?
Nicole: One aspect that my major has is a work experience course. I am currently enrolled in this class and it has become a great method of helping to prepare me for life after college. The goal of the course is to pursue a job or internship in your field of study. I current hold a position at the Seacoast Science Center teaching students who visit on field trips about the intertidal zones and organisms that reside there.
What should prospective students know about UNH?
Nicole: Despite the school being on the larger side the community you develop will make the school feel much smaller and homey. Also, taking advantage of all the public transportation options is crucial especially as a freshmen the train and bus systems are very helpful and I wish I had used them more.
Please share one unique or interesting fact about yourself.
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