In this interview, FOSSI scholar Sydney Wynn, sophomore at Howard University, reflects on the highlights of her college journey so far—from launching a community service project and attending national climate protests to navigating the challenges of college-level science and discovering new ways to stay connected to her values.
Learn how the FOSSI scholarship has supported her growth and what continues to drive her commitment to education and sustainability.
FOSSI: Could you share a few highlights about your time at Howard University? Has anything surprised you about college life so far?
My time at Howard University has been full of meaningful experiences that have shaped both my academic and personal growth. One of the biggest highlights has been launching my community service project, STEM for the WYNN!, where I gathered STEM materials and books for elementary students at a local Title I school. It has been so rewarding to see how excited young students get about science and how representation can spark curiosity.
Another incredible experience was traveling to New York for the March to End Fossil Fuels protest. Being part of such a powerful movement reminded me how important youth voices are to environmental justice. I also had the honor of attending the National Environmental Youth Advisory Council’s first meeting, which connected me with other young changemakers across the country who share my commitment to sustainability and equity. I had the incredible opportunity to hear Senator Bernie Sanders and the head of the Environmental Protection Agency, Michael S. Regan, speak at this meeting—an inspiring and memorable experience.
What has really surprised me about college life is how many different ways I’ve been able to get involved with my passions. I’ve participated in environmental-based community service through various campus organizations, from working in community gardens to educating younger students about climate issues. These hands-on experiences have not only fueled my passion for environmental justice but also strengthened my commitment to making a difference, especially in Black and Brown communities.
FOSSI: How has the FOSSI scholarship impacted your experience?
The FOSSI scholarship has connected me with an incredible community of scholars on campus and opened the door to valuable networking opportunities both within and beyond Howard. My mentor from the Chemours Company has been especially impactful, emphasizing the importance of gaining hands-on experience through internships or summer research programs. Thanks to that guidance, I was much more intentional during my sophomore year about securing a meaningful opportunity for the summer.
FOSSI: Tell us about the progress you’re making in your studies.
While biology is certainly a challenging subject, I’ve been committed to pushing myself and becoming more confident and proficient in my coursework. I’ve always had a deep love for science, especially when it comes to understanding how biological life is created and how it evolves. My passion has made my nearly two years at Howard both fulfilling and motivating, even in the face of challenges. This semester, I’m taking Microbiology and Chemistry II with incredible professors who make learning engaging and enjoyable, and I feel proud of the progress I’m making.
Looking back on your freshman year at Howard, what were some of the biggest challenges and successes you experienced, and how have those experiences shaped your approach to your sophomore year?
One of my biggest challenges during freshman year was adjusting to college-level science courses, particularly chemistry. The only time I had taken a chemistry class before was virtually in 2021 during the COVID-19 lockdown, so stepping into an in-person, fast-paced college course was a major shift. The transition from high school to college-level academics pushed me to reevaluate my study habits and taught me the difference between memorizing content and truly understanding it.
Despite the challenge, this experience became a success because it helped me build a stronger foundation for the rest of my STEM courses. It also taught me how to better manage my time, prioritize self-care, and create a work-life balance. These lessons have made me more confident and prepared as I head into my sophomore year, both academically and personally.
FOSSI: What extracurricular activities are you enjoying on campus?
I currently serve as a staffer for the Howard University Student Association (HUSA), where I’m the Public Relations Co-Chair for the Sustainability Department. In this role, I promote sustainability initiatives on campus through social media and highlight the various events we host to engage and educate students. I also serve as the Event Coordinator for CHAARG, a women-led fitness organization that encourages sisterhood and staying active throughout the school year. Both roles allow me to combine my passions for wellness, community, and environmental advocacy in meaningful ways.
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