This month, we are thrilled to shine our Student Spotlight on Dylan Hamilton, a passionate undergraduate double-majoring in Geography and Ecology at UNT. Dylan is also a recipient of the Sustainability Certificate, blending her academic interests with a commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable future.Dylan Hamilton

Dylan’s journey into geography began while pursuing the Sustainability Certificate as part of her Ecology major. During a sustainability course with Dr. Ferring, she discovered just how wide-ranging and interconnected the field of geography is. Inspired by the relationships between people, the planet, and environmental systems, she decided to add Geography as a second major.

“The opportunity to learn more about sustainability and how the Earth works drew me to the Geography Department here at UNT.”

Since joining the department, Dylan has taken full advantage of the opportunities available on campus. She loves the diversity of knowledge and experiences UNT offers, sharing:

“The best thing about being a student at UNT is all the opportunities for knowledge and connection. No matter what you are interested in, there is a program, course, club, or professor doing research about it. That, and all the free campus events, of course!”

Her time at UNT has also been shaped by unique hands-on experiences. This past summer, Dylan participated in the City of Garland’s Summer Ambassador Program, where she worked on real-world sustainability initiatives. She even received a quirky surprise along the way: a trip to a zoo owned by someone featured in Tiger King! Dylan laughs, calling it “even weirder in person.”

Looking to the future, Dylan plans to graduate this December and pursue a career in municipal sustainability, helping cities in North Texas reduce their environmental impact—and, hopefully, create positive change for communities.

She also offers heartfelt advice to her fellow students:

“Ask for help before you feel like you are drowning. Almost everyone here at UNT wants you to succeed and is willing to help you—but you have to ask for that help.”

When she’s not focused on academics, Dylan enjoys exploring her creative side.  Before pursuing science, she originally planned to major in Vocal Performance, and even played Little Red Riding Hood in her high school’s production of Into the Woods.

And when it comes to local favorites, Dylan highly recommends Beth Marie’s Ice Cream on the Denton Square—home to what she describes as “the best ice cream I have ever tried.” 🍦

We are so proud to spotlight Dylan this October and celebrate all that she has accomplished as she prepares to graduate and make a lasting impact on the world.