Student Profile: Nathalie Beltran Vargas
Nathalie Beltran Vargas is a third-year master’s student in the Department of Environmental Health Sciences
Q: Tell us about yourself.
My name is Nathalie Beltran Vargas, and I am a third-year master’s student in the Environmental Health Sciences (EHS) Department. My research focuses on the spatial and seasonal variations of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) in relation to land use factors in Holyoke, MA. I am also interested in the potential impacts of NO₂ on wildlife. In collaboration with the Department of Conservation (ECO), I am exploring how climate change events, such as heat waves, affect pollination, plant-herbivore interactions, and fruit production, as well as how air pollution may interact with these ecological relationships.
Q: Why did you choose UMass?
I chose UMass because I was drawn to the campus, the variety of programs and courses, and its proximity to home. UMass Amherst was also the only university nearby offering a master’s degree in Environmental Health, making it an ideal choice. In fact, it was the only school I applied to after completing my bachelor’s because I knew it was the place I wanted to pursue my graduate studies
Q: What is your favorite thing about the EHS department?
One of the things I appreciate most about the EHS department is the collaboration among everyone. Camaraderie is incredibly valuable, especially as we navigate the challenges of graduate school, and it’s something you can truly feel in our department. I also value the diversity of research here. Students are focused on a range of topics in toxicology and air pollution, which broadens our collective knowledge. Our program is very diverse, with students from all over the world, which is especially meaningful to me. While focusing on my research, I’m also learning how different pollutants impact people and countries in unique ways. We’re gaining insights not just about pollution in the United States, but about how pollution is experienced worldwide and how factors like identity influence these experiences. The faculty and staff are also deeply committed to each student's success.
Q: What would you tell someone who is considering UMass?
I would highly encourage anyone to pursue this path! SPHHS students gain essential knowledge and become successful researchers all while building valuable connections to support our future careers.
Q: How has the EHS department prepared you to succeed in the future?
My research skills have grown exponentially, not only in conducting research but also in effectively communicating scientific findings. I’ve learned to collaborate with other researchers and teams by engaging in interdisciplinary research. Through various projects, meetings, and conferences, I have built a strong network that has greatly supported my academic career.
Q: What do you plan to do after graduating?
I am currently working and taking time to figure out my next steps. It’s important to pause and think carefully about future commitments and set both short and long-term goals to stay on track and achieve them.