Nick Hellrood

What is your major? Landscape architecture, with certificates in environmental studies and integrated design of built and natural environments

Expected graduation: Spring 2026

What inspired your interest in the environment and/or community? Growing up here in Madison, I spent a lot of time outside in the parks growing up with my mom. I have been interested in doing something with the environment and the public for a while, but it took me a bit to figure out what that actually was.

My 4th year of college I had a few different impactful experiences. I took my first landscape architecture studio as well as starting my job as a Park Ranger with Madison Parks. It was these things together that really inspired me and sparked my passion for equitable access to the environment and helping the community.

At first, I thought the park ranger job would be more natural resource focused, but I was pleasantly surprised with a more community-oriented role. In this position, I got to travel all around the city engaging and helping people from the neighborhoods around the city.

One part of the job that became more prevalent after starting in the field was our outreach with the homeless population in the city. I got to interact very directly with many different people in my community, something I am very grateful for. Now through landscape architect and other work, I feel like I can directly link my passion for equity, accessibility, and sustainability in the environment and community even more directly.

What would you say to other students who ask about CESP or the Nelson Institute? I urge all students remotely interested in the environment to take a class through the Nelson Institute. In my freshman year, my environmental studies courses were the only ones I looked forward to attending.

When I started thinking about switching majors or dropping out in my junior year, I felt lost. The courses and professors in the Nelson Institute inspired me to stay focused on the environment and my community, and I credit that for helping me find my way.

CESP was another blessing in disguise. Having a cohort of students with similar interests and involvements inspired me to focus the rest of my time in school towards the community and issues I care about. Everyone I have met here has been incredibly kind, and it is really wonderful to feel so welcomed in a community on a large campus such as UW.

 Something few people know about you: I really enjoy printmaking, and I am really good at repeating tunes or mimicking noises by whistling.