Laura Bort Martin graduated from BU with a BA (Hons) Politics and Economics in 2022 and is now building a career as a climate activist while completing further study.
We asked Laura what led her to choose her course and BU. She said: “I chose to study politics and economics because of the interrelationship of these two subjects, and because it was something I was very passionate to learn about. I also wanted to develop my critical thinking skills, and I found just that with this course.
“I chose to study at BU because of all the support they offered with student mental health and wellbeing, as well as how good their careers set-up was. I had also been living by the beach my entire life, so wanted to move somewhere that would give me access to this as well.”
Among the highlights of her BU experience, Laura cites finding her dissertation supervisor as being pivotal to making the most of her natural interests. She says: “I explained to her that I was passionate about climate action, and she never hesitated when thinking about my dissertation. We both knew it was going to be related to this. She was also an expert on environmental politics, which was a great introduction to what I do now. She helped me find my passion and helped me progress within the field.”
Since completing her degree, Laura has progressed on to further study with a Master’s in Sustainable Development and attended the Aspen Institute Future Climate Leaders Summit in Miami. This led to her meeting key figures in American politics, including Vice President Kamala Harris, former Presidential candidate, Tom Steyer, and Republican Congressman, John Curtis. She is now using this experience to build a career as a climate activist, raising awareness and educating people about climate change and possible solutions.
When asked what advice Laura would share with other students considering following a similar path, she said: “I would tell them to take every opportunity that is given to them. If you never try, you will never get it. If you get a no, you'll be in the same place you are at right now. However, if you get a yes, it may change your life. I am now in contact with many important people from all over the world, and that is because I took the chance and got accepted to go to Miami. What is more, because of my determination, I am now following my passion and doing something I love.”
Finally, Laura says she wishes she had known not to be nervous around her lecturers! She said: “They are there to help you. They want you to succeed, and if you ask them, they will do everything possible to help.”