Even though we all share a love for climate justice, EFI employees are so much more than just our work.
Meet Karla! Karla is EFI’s Communications Intern. An urban farmer and science enthusiast, we know that Karla has a bright future ahead of her!
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I really wanted to be an astronaut or an astronomer; I was obsessed with Sally Ride and Carl Sagan growing up. I was fascinated by the idea of space, the sky, and just the amount of possibility in the unexplored. Thinking back, I think it is how I became interested in climate science. In middle school, I read “Contact” by Carl Sagan, and Sagan showed so much appreciation for the world and science in such a genuine way. His curiosity and eagerness to learn was so contagious, and it inspired me to all throughout school and even now when college gets a bit rough.
What was your most rewarding experience prior to working at EFI?
Last year, I started working at a small half acre urban farm in Austin, and it has been one of the best experiences I have had in college so far. At the farm, I have been able to lead student volunteers who are so curious and interested in food systems, and it is very rewarding to see them come back and work with us every weekend.
Learning about things like soil, composting, and so much of what goes into food production has made me incredibly grateful for my own food security and more aware that others in urban areas don’t have access to healthy food sources.
What’s the best thing about working at EFI?
The best thing about EFI is being surrounded by such intelligent and passionate people. I try to take in and learn as much as I can from them every day. As someone who is still figuring out their career path, it is inspiring to see the real change people can make through their work. I try to be a sponge and take with me all the advice I can.
What gives you hope for the future?
Information is traveling so fast and to every corner of the world; we have so much of it. There are so many non-traditional ways to become educated today, and I hope that we figure out how to use that for good. There is so much misinformation online, which is why I think fields like science communication are so important right now. Experts in all fields want to communicate more effectively. I see it here at EFI with the team advocating for the accessibility of knowledge through their work. That effort gives me a lot of hope.
What is one thing on your bucket list (professional or otherwise)?
Right now, it is to visit every national park! I’ve only been to White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns, so sometimes I have a long way to go. Next year, after my graduation, I’m planning a cross country trip to (hopefully) get through all the sites in one summer!
What is your favorite song at the moment?
Here Comes the Moon by George Harrison!
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