Kaitlyn Williams

Academic Interests

Environmental Science & Policy, Public Policy & International Affairs

Fun Fact

I am advanced scuba certified!

Growing up, I had a seemingly magnetic attraction to the sea and possessed an immense curiosity about what lies beneath its surface. I have always loved visiting the beach with my family, and some of my best memories revolve around the ocean and the immense opportunities and experiences that its existence has provided me. Throughout the years, this passion has been molded thanks to countless summer experiences, such as volunteering in sea turtle hatcheries and working to rebuild coral communities, culminating in a passion for environmental science and policy. Here at Duke, I hope to explore the intersection of environmental science with governmental policy, equity, and foreign affairs to create a well-rounded understanding of our Earth. I hope to one day work with important environmental organizations such as NOAA or the UN Climate division in order to help sustain our planet and obtain a more environmentally friendly future for generations to come.

Throughout my lifetime, I've been incredibly fortunate enough to pursue countless different avenues, resulting in a very diverse portfolio of passions. In high school, I was president of my National Honors Society and Science National Honors Society, captain of my Varsity Tennis team, and heavily involved in student leadership organizations. I also love to give back to my community and volunteered as a youth girls' soccer coach for three seasons, a passion I hope to pursue again during my sophomore year here at Duke when I have a car. In addition to being a SPIRE fellow, so far this year, I am involved with a variety of organizations, which similarly reflect the diversity of my interests. I am a member of the Duke Sustainability Ambassador program, a DUU First Year Intern, a House Council member, as well as a volunteer for TGC, Femmes+, and the Duke Puppy Kindergarten! Outside of class time, I love to read, soak up the sunshine outside, go to concerts, and travel.

What do you like about being a SPIRE Fellow?

I've dreamed of attending Duke since I was a freshman in high school, but I never would've guessed how deeply I'd fall in love with the fantastic community. Everyone here at Duke is so passionate about their interests and is so willing and excited to share, but also fascinated to hear about your interests and learn something new. This quality creates a diverse student body with an incredible ability to have meaningful conversations and build long-lasting relationships that I don't think I'll ever be able to forget.