Eliana Bernat

What is your major? Chemistry

Expected graduation: May 2026

What inspired your interest in the environment and/or community? I grew up with a love of the outdoors from going on hikes and playing outside with my family. I was always curious about nature and loved learning about interesting plants and animals.

After learning about the climate crisis, in high school I connected with a local environmental justice organization, which taught me not only the generational injustice of climate change, but also how it exacerbates existing social inequities and health disparities.

I have since been involved with several environmental and community focused organizations, which have deepened my understanding of these issues, especially with how environmental issues relate to chemistry. I am inspired to continue environmental justice and community work in my career and am excited to learn through CESP!

What would you say to other students who ask about CESP or the Nelson Institute? The CESP community is amazing! Everyone comes from different backgrounds, which creates such thoughtful conversations every week. I am always learning from everyone’s different perspectives. The Nelson Institute as a whole is also great; all the professors and staff really care and want to support the students.