2-student-life-biodiesel
Biodiesel program encourages independent learning
For Joylyn Bon Yu, an international graduate student from the Philippines, working in Loyola's Searle Biodiesel Lab was a vital step toward a career in sustainability. Bon Yu chose the professional track master's degree program in SES because it includes a focus on practical career skills and exposure to real-world sustainability solutions. She applied to the biodiesel internship on campus to gain hands-on experience with this flagship campus sustainability initiative.
The biodiesel lab internship was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of sustainability in the energy sector and helped me determine where I want to take my career.” Joylyn Bon Yu, SES graduate student
Joylyn Bon Yu (left) gained valuable skills in sustainability consulting and analytics as an intern in the Searle Biodiesel Lab.
With guidance from program manager Zach Waickman, students working in the lab convert used vegetable oil from campus cafeterias and local restaurants into renewable biodiesel fuel tha powers campus shuttle buses. The team also uses glycerin generated as a byproduct of biodiesel production to make soap for campus washrooms.
As an intern, Bon Yu contributed to biodiesel and soap production and participated in quality control testing. Bon Yu said she appreciated the independent learning culture within the lab. She noted that Waickman provided guidance while allowing interns to take initiative and propose project ideas and efficiency improvements.
Her time in the Biodiesel Lab reinforced Bon Yu's interest in sustainability consulting and analytics, with a particular focus on the energy sector. She said it also helped her hone essential soft skills such as problem-solving, adaptability, and critical thinking. The experience gave her confidence when networking with professionals in the field and helped her secure a summer internship at a sustainability consulting firm.
With guidance from program manager Zach Waickman, students working in the lab convert used vegetable oil from campus cafeterias and local restaurants into renewable biodiesel fuel tha powers campus shuttle buses. The team also uses glycerin generated as a byproduct of biodiesel production to make soap for campus washrooms.
As an intern, Bon Yu contributed to biodiesel and soap production and participated in quality control testing. Bon Yu said she appreciated the independent learning culture within the lab. She noted that Waickman provided guidance while allowing interns to take initiative and propose project ideas and efficiency improvements.
Her time in the Biodiesel Lab reinforced Bon Yu's interest in sustainability consulting and analytics, with a particular focus on the energy sector. She said it also helped her hone essential soft skills such as problem-solving, adaptability, and critical thinking. The experience gave her confidence when networking with professionals in the field and helped her secure a summer internship at a sustainability consulting firm.