Ainsley Wright started out studying environmental science at IUPUI. But it only took her first sustainability class for her to realize she needed to make a change.

She soon transferred to the O’Neill School and changed her major to Environmental Policy and Sustainability.

“The O’Neill School allowed me to study the interactions between humans and our environment and to focus more on community engagement as a solution to climate change,” she says.

Wright’s work—and work ethic—caught the attention of the university. Each year, IUPUI selects 100 outstanding undergrads who demonstrate academic excellence, campus leadership, and community engagement. Wright made the list for 2024.

“Learning I was named to the Top 100 was really exciting,” Wright says. “I wasn’t expecting it at all, but it is always nice to be rewarded for all the hard work I have done. It was a moment to take a deep breath and allow myself to take pride in where I am and all that I’ve achieved, but also to stop and reflect on the privilege it has been to attend college at IUPUI.”

Why did you choose to attend O’Neill?

“I switched to the O’Neill School after taking a sustainability class my freshman year. I knew right away that was my calling. Since then, the O’Neill School has offered its unwavering support through my educational endeavors and the opportunity to be involved every step of the way.”

What has your experience at O’Neill been like thus far?

“The O’Neill School has been unique in that its classes are smaller, and the faculty seek to have a personal connection with their students.”

What sort of unique experiences have you been part of through O’Neill?

“My experience at the O’Neill School has been truly one of a kind and characterized by my involvement. I have loved my climate fellowship at the Indianapolis International Airport this past year, as well as my experience working in the O’Neill office as a peer advisor and assistant for three years. Because of O’Neill, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Bavaria and Lombardia in the summer of 2023, which has been one of my most memorable experiences in college. I also have been involved with the Urban Beekeeping Club as president for the past two years!”

 What are your plans after graduation?

“I’m planning to pursue my MPA in Environmental Policy and Sustainability here at O’Neill Indianapolis!”