Family support, perseverance and student club engagement have helped Esteban Contreras thrive while pursuing his environmental sciences degree online
My academic and professional journey at Oregon State University has been a journey of challenges, sacrifices and growth. As I reflect on the path I’ve taken, I am proud of how I have balanced the demands of full-time work, family responsibilities and my studies, all while actively participating in leadership roles that have allowed me to make meaningful contributions to the student community.
Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences online with a concentration in chemistry and the environment has been a rigorous endeavor. Courses like calculus and organic chemistry posed significant challenges, particularly as an online student. However, I refused to let these obstacles deter me. I sought out additional resources, engaged in online forums and connected with peers to deepen my understanding. My commitment to mastering these subjects paid off, as I achieved honor roll status for two consecutive years.
In 2023-2024, I was honored to receive the Environmental Sciences Endowed Scholarship and the Hunt Memorial Scholarship in Geography. These scholarships were awarded based on academic excellence, leadership and a demonstrated commitment to environmental causes. Earning these awards was a testament to my dedication and the countless hours I devoted to my studies.
The most significant challenge I have faced has been balancing my full-time role as an environmental compliance inspector with my academic responsibilities and my family life. My work requires precision, attention to detail and adherence to strict regulatory standards. At the same time, my studies demanded strict discipline and time management.
Esteban Contreras says his family — including wife Brianda, daugther Lily and son Luca — provide the support and inspiration he needs to persevere while pursuing his environmental sciences bachelor’s degree online from Oregon State.
Adding to this, I have the responsibility of being a husband and father, which requires time, energy and emotional investment. To manage these competing demands, I developed a disciplined schedule. I would set specific time slots for homework, often late at night after my children were asleep.
My wife played an instrumental role in supporting me through this period, often taking on extra responsibilities at home so I could focus on my studies. Her understanding and encouragement were invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for the sacrifices she made alongside me. Despite the long hours, I remained motivated by the knowledge that I was working toward a better future for my family and myself. The support system provided by my family, coupled with my determination, allowed me to persevere through these challenges.
In addition to my academic and professional responsibilities, I have been deeply involved in student organizations at Oregon State University. As co-president of the Ecampus Environmental Alliance Club, I have had the privilege of leading a group of passionate students committed to environmental advocacy. One of our major accomplishments has been organizing a series of virtual events that would connect students with environmental professionals, providing valuable insights and networking opportunities.
“I aspire to be a role model for others who may feel overwhelmed by the demands of life, demonstrating that while pursuing an education is challenging, it is also deeply rewarding.”
However, leading a remote student organization came with its own set of challenges, particularly in maintaining engagement and coordinating activities across different time zones. I tackled these challenges by implementing a more flexible approach to event planning and encouraging open communication within the group.
I also serve as a member of the Ecampus Student Advisory Board, where I work alongside fellow students to represent the interests of the Ecampus community. Our board has successfully brought attention to key concerns, such as the need for more accessible resources for remote students. Through these roles, I have developed my leadership skills and learned the importance of advocacy, collaboration and perseverance. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my character and outlook.
The challenges I have faced have built my resilience and determination, teaching me that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles. My involvement in student organizations has honed my leadership abilities, allowing me to become a more effective communicator and advocate for others.
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Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my journey in the field of environmental sciences. My goal is to leverage my education, professional experience and leadership skills to make meaningful contributions to environmental protection and sustainability. I aspire to be a role model for others who may feel overwhelmed by the demands of life, demonstrating that while pursuing an education is challenging, it is also deeply rewarding.
My journey at Oregon State University has been one of growth, sacrifice and achievement. I am proud of what I have accomplished and grateful for the support I have received along the way. These experiences have prepared me for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and I am eager to continue making a positive impact in my field and community.
Learn more about how you can pursue your environmental sciences degree online with Oregon State University, and get started on your journey today.
