Student Profile: Esmée DeCortie
Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of the Chatham experience is the community. In such unprecedented times, I (Abigail Kneuss ‘23), have become increasingly grateful for this community and its members. In an effort to showcase just a few of these great people, I’ll be doing a series of student interviews in the coming weeks. These highlights are for students, about students, and by students. This week features Esmée DeCortie ‘22.
Esmée is an Environmental Science student here at Chatham who is also a member of both the track and cross country teams. Learn more about her, the research she’s done in Environmental Science, and her fun hobbies below!
Esmée DeCortie ‘22
Q: Why did you decide to come to Chatham and study Environmental Science?
A: I was looking for a school close to home but still in the city. I toured the campus and I really liked the feel and it seemed like a good fit. I decided to study Environmental Science because I always liked to be outdoors as a kid and it has extended into my interests today. I started in this major and I’ve really enjoyed my studies and the research I’ve done and have never wanted to switch!
Q: Can you tell me more about the research you’ve done?
A: I was working on a research project last summer with Dr. Utz. We were looking at how to restore American Black Elderberry which is a native species being threatened by overgrazing by deer and invasive species. We planted some elderberries in different plots and recorded how they responded to different treatments. It opened my eyes to the world of research and I have been exploring what that means for me for the future.
What inspired you to join an athletic team?
I wasn’t planning on it when I entered college, but I’m so glad that I did. My first year, my RA was on the team and we were just sort of talking one night. I told her that I liked to run, and she said I should join the cross country team. She took me to meet the coach and I joined, and I’ve been on it ever since!
Q: Favorite part of being on a team?
A: You see the people you run with every day so it’s really just like hanging out with your friends. The team mentality is really building each other up so it’s a great support system as well. It’s a bit of a different environment this year with COVID restrictions, but it’s still just a fun time with a group of people who like to run.
Q: Best class or professor you’ve had at Chatham?
A: My favorite class was probably Botany with Dr. Johnson because she knows so much about plants. She’s an inspiration to me as someone who is minoring in Botany. I’ve also learned a lot of professional skills and programming from my work with Dr. Utz that will serve me in my future career.
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
A: I’m actually learning to embroider right now. I also like to read and go for walks. I’ve been growing some plants lately as well.
Q: Any suggestions for someone who wants to start growing plants?
A: Pick something that is hearty and doesn’t need a lot of sun, especially in the winter. Succulents and some kinds of bamboo and cacti are great for people who want something easy and low maintenance. Herbs and things of that sort need a lot of sun and are better to grow in the summertime.
To learn more about Chatham Athletics, go here. Know a student that should be featured or would like to be featured yourself? Email us or shoot us a DM! We’re happy to hear your suggestions.