East Michigan News

The College of Science and Engineering at Central Michigan University (CMU) highlights Izabel Colliton, an environmental science major with a biology minor. She selected CMU for its walkable campus and small class sizes, fostering close connections with peers and faculty. Her choice was driven by a desire for a community-focused learning environment that supports both academic and personal growth.

Izabel expresses enthusiasm for her current semester's environmental field and data analysis course, which includes practical learning experiences and field trips. “This class is one I’m really looking forward to,” she said, emphasizing the importance of experiences beyond the classroom. Her commitment to environmental education grew through a summer internship in Suttons Bay, MI, where she worked as an educator on a sailboat. In this role, Izabel educated school groups about the health of the Great Lakes, describing it as an eye-opening experience that highlighted the critical need for environmental awareness.

In the future, Izabel intends to explore microplastics research to understand their impact on wildlife, human health, and ecosystems—a significant environmental concern.

For prospective students at CMU, Izabel advises: “take advantage of every opportunity you get; you are deserving of good things.” Her journey embodies the CMU experience—where community connections, hands-on learning opportunities, and meaningful work support students in reaching their goals.