Why not me?” This sentiment has driven Andrew Voelsing’s transformative journey at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where the senior student transitioned from early academic struggles to finding a clear sense of purpose through climate science and community service.
Upon arriving at MIT, Voelsing initially felt out of place as he faced academic challenges that contrasted with his high school experiences. After a conversation with his father during his first-year winter break, he chose a major that aligned his skills with global needs. He moved from aerospace engineering into the climate system science and engineering program, a decision he describes as being “like night and day.”
Voelsing’s academic trajectory was further defined by a course in environmental history taught by Professor Susan Solomon. The class encouraged him to investigate primary sources and identify overlooked environmental questions. His research into an agroforestry project in Uganda deepened his interest in global food systems, which he now intends to pursue in graduate school.
Reflecting on the complexity of the climate crisis, Voelsing noted, “There’s not going to be this one technology that comes along, and suddenly climate change isn’t an issue. It will be a combination of 100 things making it 1 percent better for us to get across that finish line.”
Outside of his studies, Voelsing has been deeply involved with Camp Kesem, a student-run nonprofit that provides free summer camps for children whose parents have been affected by cancer.
Over his years at MIT, he took on various leadership roles, including operations coordinator and organizer of a fundraising gala. However, as a senior, he returned to the role of camp counselor, noting that his favorite aspect remains “just spending time with kids.”
