Student Voices on Sustainability | Danielle Hermosillo: Earth Grant Scholar

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Danielle Hermosillo, a sophomore studying psychology and care, health, and society, is one of four students selected for the 2025–2026 Earth Grant cohort in the Arizona Institute for Resilience, a program that supports student research and engagement in environmental sustainability. Through this initiative, students gain hands-on experience addressing real-world environmental challenges while working with community partners.

This year’s cohort also includes College of SBS students Frankois Zebasthian Valdez, a sophomore studying global studies with a minor in Spanish; Khusan Jumaboev, a senior double majoring in political science, resource economics and management; and Kylo Blanco-Soto, a senior studying environmental science with an emphasis in soil, land and water and a minor in American Indian Studies.

Through their academic work and participation in the Earth Grant program, these students are exploring how environmental challenges intersect with health, policy, culture, and global systems. Below, we highlight Hermosillo to learn more about her path, her passion for sustainability, and her advice for fellow Wildcats.

Q. Why did you choose the University of Arizona and to major in psychology & care, health and society?

I chose the University of Arizona because it felt like a place where I could grow both academically and personally while staying connected to my community. Majoring in Psychology and Care, Health and Society allow me to better understand people’s experiences, especially in relation to health and access to resources. Since I hope to become an occupational therapist, these majors give me a strong foundation to support individuals more holistically and compassionately.

Q. Why did you decide to join the Earth Grant Program, and what do you enjoy most about it?

I decided to join the Earth Grant Program to learn more about environmental factors that can affect our health and how those issues impact communities here in Tucson.  What I enjoy about the Earth Grant program is the hands-on experience it offers; we have access to resources outside of UA, weekly guest speakers, and students are able to learn skills in leadership. I very much enjoy connecting with community members and getting to engage with other organizations. Through my internship with Flowers and Bullets, I’ve been able to gain a deeper understanding of how to implement sustainable practices and see the work nonprofits are doing to support the community and ensure safety.

Q. Through your internship with Flowers and Bullets, what kind of impact are you hoping to make in your community, and what skills are you most excited to develop?

Through my internship with Flowers and Bullets, I hope to be more available to my community. I want to be able to provide resources when appropriate about a certain topic. I want to contribute to creating a space where people feel supported and cared for. I'm excited to continue developing my skills in advocacy, resource navigation, and leadership. 

Q. What advice would you give to other students who are interested in sustainability but aren’t sure where to start?

Any career can benefit from learning about sustainability. Being open to learning is the first step, because sustainability connects to so many different areas, from health to community development. I would suggest any student who is interested in sustainability to volunteer in organizations that align with sustainability practices, like Flowers & Bullets, to get involved, learn, and gain experience. It's a great opportunity to ask questions and build connections! I would highly recommend applying to the Earth Grant program, as there are many internships that you can match with, and you will definitely find an internship that you are interested in! Lastly, don’t be afraid to start small and step outside of your comfort zone; every experience, no matter how small, can help you grow and make a meaningful impact.

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