Schanz internship
Gaining skills and making connections in the biodiesel lab
For Duncan Schanz, a sophomore environmental science major at 黑料门University Chicago, securing an internship at the university’s Searle Biodiesel Lab was more than just a resume booster; it was an opportunity to contribute to sustainability efforts and gain valuable hands-on experience. His journey from being intrigued by environmental science to actively participating in biodiesel production offers an inspiring look at the impact of hands-on learning via an internship that helps shape career aspirations.
For Duncan Schanz, interning in the Biodiesel Lab has reaffirmed his commitment to sustainability and his desire to contribute to reducing carbon emissions.
Duncan has always had a passion for environmental work and was drawn to Loyola’s School of Environmental Sustainability for its unwavering commitment to climate impact and overall sustainability. His interest in practical applications of environmental science led him to the Biodiesel Lab. Seeing the direct impacts of his work, such as the biodiesel fuel he created in the lab powering Loyola’s shuttle buses, was a powerful motivator for him.
Duncan’s opportunity to work in the lab came through an email sent through the weekly School of Environmental Sustainability bulletin organized by Karen Schauwecker, who coordinates a variety of internship opportunities for students. Though initially he wasn’t certain about applying, Duncan decided to take a chance. This proactive decision underscores the importance of utilizing university resources and taking initiative.
So far, during his internship, Duncan has been provided with a comprehensive understanding of biodiesel production, covering the entire process from raw vegetable oil to the final biodiesel product. His work involves conducting quality control testing, troubleshooting production inefficiencies, and refining biodiesel samples. Rather than focusing on deep theoretical chemistry, he has had the opportunity to gain a practical understanding of chemical reactions and learn to identify patterns in biodiesel production. The experience also helped him discover how he works in a laboratory setting and hands-on environments with others.
Initially, Duncan was intimidated by working in a lab, but under the guidance of his supervisor, Zach Waickman, he developed confidence and technical skills. His time in the Biodiesel Lab has reaffirmed his commitment to sustainability and his desire to contribute to reducing carbon emissions. While the experience cemented his interest in laboratory work, it also sparked a curiosity about field research. As for right now, Duncan’s future job goals are just to be fulfilled wherever he works and to be proud of the work he is achieving.
Duncan’s biggest advice for first- and second-year students considering internships is simple: don’t be shy. If you see an opportunity you think you may enjoy, go for it. It doesn’t hurt to get rejected from an internship; if anything, you can take it as a learning process. He also encourages students to network and get involved early, something he wishes he had done sooner. “Go meet some people. Start your networking,” he said. He emphasized that internships provide practical experience and pay and connect students with staff and more experienced students who can offer invaluable guidance.
- by Danielle Hurtt
Duncan has always had a passion for environmental work and was drawn to Loyola’s School of Environmental Sustainability for its unwavering commitment to climate impact and overall sustainability. His interest in practical applications of environmental science led him to the Biodiesel Lab. Seeing the direct impacts of his work, such as the biodiesel fuel he created in the lab powering Loyola’s shuttle buses, was a powerful motivator for him.
Duncan’s opportunity to work in the lab came through an email sent through the weekly School of Environmental Sustainability bulletin organized by Karen Schauwecker, who coordinates a variety of internship opportunities for students. Though initially he wasn’t certain about applying, Duncan decided to take a chance. This proactive decision underscores the importance of utilizing university resources and taking initiative.
So far, during his internship, Duncan has been provided with a comprehensive understanding of biodiesel production, covering the entire process from raw vegetable oil to the final biodiesel product. His work involves conducting quality control testing, troubleshooting production inefficiencies, and refining biodiesel samples. Rather than focusing on deep theoretical chemistry, he has had the opportunity to gain a practical understanding of chemical reactions and learn to identify patterns in biodiesel production. The experience also helped him discover how he works in a laboratory setting and hands-on environments with others.
Initially, Duncan was intimidated by working in a lab, but under the guidance of his supervisor, Zach Waickman, he developed confidence and technical skills. His time in the Biodiesel Lab has reaffirmed his commitment to sustainability and his desire to contribute to reducing carbon emissions. While the experience cemented his interest in laboratory work, it also sparked a curiosity about field research. As for right now, Duncan’s future job goals are just to be fulfilled wherever he works and to be proud of the work he is achieving.
Duncan’s biggest advice for first- and second-year students considering internships is simple: don’t be shy. If you see an opportunity you think you may enjoy, go for it. It doesn’t hurt to get rejected from an internship; if anything, you can take it as a learning process. He also encourages students to network and get involved early, something he wishes he had done sooner. “Go meet some people. Start your networking,” he said. He emphasized that internships provide practical experience and pay and connect students with staff and more experienced students who can offer invaluable guidance.
- by Danielle Hurtt