O’Neill’s Amber Greaney was selected as one of IUPUI’s Top 10 students for 2019. The Sustainable Management and Policy major was initially included in the university’s Top 100. On Friday, April 12, Chancellor Nasser Paydar announced she was one of the select students to appear in the Top 10. She says she knew from the moment she heard about O’Neill that its mission matched her own.
“When I heard O’Neill’s slogan—Major in Making a Difference—I knew it was the right place for me,” she recalls. “I love that every student in the school has a passion to serve a greater cause.”
Amber’s passion has grown into countless projects, both on and off campus. Those projects and her on-going commitment to sustainability are just some of the reasons she was selected for the Top 100 award. We asked her to weigh in on the honor, her advice for other students, and her plans to make a difference in the world.
What was your reaction to being selected for a Top 100 award?
“Being selected for Top 100 was one of the most rewarding moments I’ve had in college. It presented the opportunity for me to reflect on everything I’ve accomplished and feel that the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my work is acknowledged and appreciated.”
What was your reaction when you learned you were in the Top 10?
“When they called my name my jaw literally dropped. I was immediately overwhelmed with elation and gratitude; I couldn’t help from tearing up. And for my family, friends, faculty, and staff to experience that with me, I didn’t know it was possible for my heart to be so full! I felt esteemed just to be among the Top 100, then to be named as one of the Top 10 students at IUPUI, there are really no words to describe the honor.”
What advice do you have for students just starting in the O’Neill School?
“For a student just starting at O’Neill, my best advice is to seize every opportunity you’re presented with. There are so many chances to make a difference on our campus and in the greater Indianapolis community. Ask your professors about their research, write a grant, attend conferences, and take internship opportunities. Never in your life will you be offered so many chances to succeed!”
What has been one of your most memorable projects in O’Neill?
“My freshman year I took Jessica Davis’ Principles of Sustainability class where we were required to write a grant to make campus more sustainable. My group wrote a Greening IUPUI Grant to implement low flow dual flush handles into the university library bathrooms, saving 1 million gallons of water each year! Our grant was selected for funding and that was the first moment I realized I had the opportunity to make a real difference on campus.”
What are your plans after graduation?
“I recently received my acceptance into the O’Neill Master of Public Affairs graduate program! Next semester, I will begin working toward my MPA, concentrating on Environmental Policy and Sustainability. After receiving my master’s degree, I am looking forward to using my knowledge of the unique sustainability context in our city to enhance Indianapolis socially, economically, and environmentally.”
