By Rowen Carrick, Student in the M.S. in Sustainability Management Program, School of Professional Studies
Gerardo Rios Garcia is a current full-time student in the Master of Science in Sustainability Management (SUMA) program. When Gerardo first arrived in New York City to pursue his master’s degree, he didn’t just bring his ambition and academic drive. He also brought his van: a converted vehicle complete with a bed, kitchen, and cozy space to call home. For Gerardo, van life was a part of a larger commitment to balancing adventure with his academic and career goals in sustainability.
Gerardo has been heavily involved in activities throughout Columbia, such as being a course reader, an intern for the Sustainability Graduate Programs as well as the UN Global Compact, and an active member and officer of other organizations throughout the University. He shares his experience in the SUMA program, how he navigates van life in the city, and words of advice for students who may want to take a similar approach.
What inspired your decision to pursue a career in sustainability?
My interest in sustainability began during my undergraduate studies when I took a few ethics classes, which made me rethink my career and the lifestyle I wanted to lead. The big turning point came when I started learning about plant-based diets, which opened a rabbit hole into various topics like emissions, environmental protection, and responsible consumption. By the time I finished my first major in marketing, I knew sustainability was more than just a passing interest—it was a passion. That’s when I decided to double major in environmental management, which opened many doors for me in this field.
How would you describe your experience in the SUMA program and at Columbia thus far? What activities are you involved in?
My experience at Columbia and within the SUMA program has been nothing short of amazing. From the moment I arrived, I made it a point to get as involved as possible, which has really paid off. I’ve had the chance to be a Teaching Assistant (TA) for both undergrad and graduate courses, conduct research at the Center on Global Energy Policy (CGEP) on energy and political economy issues, and even intern for the External Affairs and Communications team for the Sustainability Graduate Programs.
Outside of work, I was the director of marketing and creative for the SUMA Equity Alliance during my first semesters, and now I’m serving as a representative in the SPS Student Government. I also participate in the SUMA Buddy Program, connect with prospective students, and was recently appointed DEIA Officer for the School of Professional Studies. There’s always something to get involved in here, and it’s been a whirlwind of opportunities and growth.
You interned at the United Nations this past summer between semesters. How was that experience, and how has it shaped your career goals?
Interning at the United Nations was a game changer. I worked with the Sustainable Development Goals team in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, focusing specifically on climate and energy. Before this, I had mainly worked in the private sector as a consultant, so seeing how a global organization like the UN operates on these issues really expanded my perspective. The experience not only connected me with people from all over the world—from entrepreneurs to world leaders—but also opened my eyes to how much work still needs to be done on a global scale.
Now, I’m working as a Sustainability Consultant for UNICEF’s Climate, Energy, Environment, and Disaster Risk Reduction (CEED) Team. I couldn’t be happier because this role lets me address planetary crises like climate change and biodiversity loss, which put every child’s future at risk. It feels rewarding to work toward solutions that make a real difference.
M.S. in Sustainability Management student Gerardo Rios Garcia stands in front of Low Library on the Columbia University campus.
Beyond the classroom, what are some of your favorite memories since living in New York City?
I’ve been living in NYC for nearly two years and am still in the honeymoon phase. There’s always something exciting to do in this city. One of my favorite memories was actually quite simple. I was walking back to my van after a long night of studying. It was winter, and the city was lit up with Christmas lights. I had this moment where I thought, “Wow, I’m really living in NYC.” It felt surreal, like I was living a dream that wasn’t even part of the original plan. Those little moments are what make this city feel so magical.
Can you elaborate on your decision to live in your converted van when you moved here and what it’s like to live in your van while being a full-time student in NYC?
In my early twenties, I noticed that people either pursued stable corporate careers or spent their first years of adulthood seeking wild experiences around the world. I wanted to find a balance between the two. When my grandpa gave me his van in 2019, I began renovating it with the dream of doing a big road trip and possibly living in it for a while. So, when I decided to come to Columbia, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to create unique memories.
The van became the ideal solution: it combines my love for road trips with practicality. It has everything I need: a bed, a small kitchen, and a cozy spot to crash after a long day of studying. Living in a van as a full-time student is definitely a challenge, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. There are tough days, like dealing with mechanical problems, the summer heat, or freezing winter nights, but the experience has pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me how to adapt and thrive. Plus, it’s helped me save money, and that’s always a bonus in a city like NYC.
Any advice for students who may consider the van life in NYC? And for prospective students for the SUMA program?
If you’re thinking about van life in NYC or just debating whether to take a risk and do something a little crazy, my advice is simple: go for it. Get out of your comfort zone. It’s definitely not easy, but the experiences and lessons you’ll gain from it are worth every challenge. You won’t regret it!
For anyone considering the SUMA program, I’d say the same thing: Dive in and get involved in as much as you can.
About the Program
The Columbia University M.S. in Sustainability Management program, offered by the School of Professional Studies in partnership with the Climate School, provides students cutting-edge policy and management tools they can use to help public and private organizations and governments address environmental impacts and risks, pollution control, and remediation to achieve sustainability.
The fall 2025 application deadline for the M.S. in Sustainability Management program is May 1. Learn more about the program here.
