Conner Wilson didn’t find his place at CSU immediately. It took some time and exploration. As he prepares to graduate cum laude this semester with a dual degree in natural resources management and environmental and natural resource economics, Wilson has found purpose and a place of belonging through the combination of two of his passions. 

Wilson is passionate about the environment but also numbers and finance. By changing majors and adding a second major in his junior year, he was able to see a more complete picture and broaden his opportunities to pursue different types of careers. 

“I came to understand a lot more of the world through a combined environmental and economic viewpoint,” Wilson said. “That intersection also excited me, as we work to solve environmental problems through valuation and human behavior, something I hadn’t known anything about before.” 

Wilson dreams of working internationally, and in January, he will fly to South America to figure out his next step. Wilson was born in Uruguay and maintains citizenship there but has no memories of the country because his family moved to the United States when he was 2 years old. 

“Should I be able to find the right opportunities while I’m in South America, I would love nothing more than to stay to start building my career and life post-graduation,” Wilson said. 

During his time at CSU, Wilson helped to launch the Department of Forest and Rangeland Stewardship’s DEI library. He created the inventory system and made it digitally accessible by QR code. He champions the diversity and inclusion principles promoted by the books. 

“Consider how someone’s background gives them their unique perspective, even if it contrasts with your own,” Wilson said. “A patient, open mind creates worlds of opportunity and exploration. When the world opens up, our experiences become that much more enjoyable.”