When Amber Rose Greaney walked onto the IUPUI campus, she knew exactly what she wanted to do: make the world a better place. For her, that means helping people and communities focus on environmental sustainability.
From serving on IUPUI’s Sustainability Council, to working on Greening IUPUI grants, and presenting her work at national conferences, Greaney has dedicated her career at IUPUI to her cause.
Now, she’s being recognized for that work. Last year, she was named as a Top 100 undergrad student. This year, she is among IUPUI’s Elite 50 graduate students. But, to Greaney’s surprise, there was more beyond that honor. She also earned a spot among the university’s Premiere 10 students.
What was your reaction to being selected for the Premiere 10 during the Elite 50 awards?
“In all honesty reading the email brought tears to my eyes. Last year was the hardest year I have experienced, from mourning the loss of my brother to getting hit in an accident and having seven doctor appointments a week throughout the academic year. After encouragement from my faculty mentor, I decided to apply for the award as a testament to my resiliency. I told myself that if I completed the application, I would be proud of myself, regardless of the outcome. Finding out that I was selected as a Premiere 10 graduate student filled me with gratitude and allowed me the opportunity to reflect on the countless hours and dedication I have put forward amidst trials and tribulations.”
What advice would you have for students who are considering a graduate degree from O’Neill?
“Applying to graduate school will help manifest a deep passion that you are committed to pursuing. Get in tune with that and consider ways to maximize your experiences and achieve your most ambitious goals. I’ve participated in opportunities such as studying abroad, engaging in research, attending conferences, working on projects, and taking leadership
roles in student government and campus organizations. All of these experiences have been steppingstones in my pursuit to leaving a positive impact on our world.”
What has been one of your most memorable experiences with O’Neill as a grad student?
“In my role as a researcher on the Project for Research on Organizations, Management, and Publicness Theory (PROMPT) team, I had the opportunity to work on a research project designed to measure and assess the effectiveness of the Indianapolis-Marion County City-County Council. I loved the opportunity to learn the complexities and procedures involved in conducting an effective social science study. It was rewarding to be involved in this unique research knowing it would advance the impact and efforts of our local government.”
What are your plans after earning your degree?
“I aspire to use my MPA degree in Environmental Policy & Sustainability to promote the well-being of global environments, organizations, and economies by implementing sustainability strategies. My passion lies in advancing the Global Sustainable Development Goals, whether that be through working with the United Nations, higher education, or in a corporate setting.”