Hello everyone!

My name is Desi Nix-Kable, and I am a rising sophomore from West Philadelphia pursuing a degree in environmental engineering at the Swanson School of Engineering. I am also a member of the Frederick Honors College working toward my Honors degree. Aside from academics, I love lifting, eating great food, playing basketball, beating my little brother in various video games, watching sports, and spending time with my friends.

Having grown up in Philly, I’ve developed a deep love for cities. I am studying environmental engineering with the goal of figuring out how to best integrate sustainable practices into urban environments so that our cities can remain livable. I am interested in renewable energy and energy conservation, sustainable materials, and urban infrastructure that supports long-term environmental health.

That is why I am so excited to go to the Netherlands with Pitt Plus3. Much of Dutch infrastructure is very sustainable, and the country has developed impressive engineering solutions to manage its close relationship with water and the ocean. I am looking forward to exploring Dutch sustainability through this study abroad experience and learning firsthand from Dutch engineers, business owners, and everyday citizens how they develop and integrate environmentally friendly practices into their daily lives.

Over the two weeks of this program, I am also looking forward to exploring everything that Amsterdam and Rotterdam have to offer. While I have traveled to Europe before with my family, I am excited to develop a stronger level of traveling independence through this experience, and I am ready to be challenged by the various company visits, activities, and experiences we have planned. I am also excited to learn about the Netherlands’ rich culture, eat interesting food, and observe beautiful architecture.