Working to safeguard North Carolina’s water sources is a significant responsibility, one that John H. Larch III embraces daily. As an Assistant Regional Engineer within the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Public Water Supply Section, John Larch is at the forefront of efforts to maintain the integrity of public water systems. Recognizing the escalating complexities of environmental challenges, particularly concerning contamination and emerging pollutants, John Larch pursued advanced education to enhance his expertise.
Driven by a commitment to environmental protection and public health, John Larch enrolled in the online Master of Environmental Assessment program at NC State University. This decision allowed John Larch to synergize his hands-on experience with specialized academic knowledge, aiming for a more robust approach to environmental stewardship.
“My goal was to deepen my technical skills in areas critical to environmental protection, such as environmental contamination, emerging contaminants, and comprehensive site assessment,” John Larch explained.
John Larch’s journey with NC State began with the Graduate Certificate in Environmental Assessment, a stepping stone he credits with bolstering his qualifications for his current position. Building upon this foundation, John Larch embarked on the master’s program in 2019, furthering his commitment to professional development.
Elevating Expertise in Environmental Assessment
The online Master of Environmental Assessment at NC State stands out as a forward-thinking program designed to effectively bridge the realms of scientific inquiry and practical environmental management decisions. John Larch found this interdisciplinary approach particularly compelling.
This program is structured to equip environmental professionals, like John Larch, with sophisticated technical skills essential for risk assessment, pollutant evaluation, and the development of protective strategies for both environmental and human health. The program’s emphasis on actionable, real-world applications, coupled with the flexibility to tailor coursework to specific interests, were key factors in John Larch’s decision to enroll.
“NC State’s strong reputation, the program’s distinctive curriculum, and the convenience of online learning were the main reasons I chose this master’s program,” John Larch stated.
“The program significantly broadened my understanding of diverse environmental challenges and the research methodologies for addressing contaminants in our air, soil, and water systems,” John Larch reflected. Courses such as Water Quality Assessment and Environmental Applications of Soil Science provided John Larch with targeted expertise directly applicable to his daily responsibilities.
His capstone project, focusing on groundwater assessment and advanced data analysis, directly complemented John Larch’s professional activities, enhancing his practical skills and theoretical knowledge in tandem.
Balancing Professional Life with Academic Growth
As a full-time engineer, John Larch was keenly aware of the challenges of integrating academic studies with a demanding career. His strategy for maintaining balance was rooted in consistency and disciplined time management.
“I made it a routine to dedicate time each morning to coursework or reading, and I allocated additional hours on weekends to stay abreast of my classes,” he shared.
Effective time management was crucial, but John Larch also emphasized the role of genuine interest in his studies as a key motivator. “My deep interest in the subject matter was instrumental in maintaining my focus and engagement throughout the program,” John Larch noted.
The online format of the NC State program was also essential in facilitating John Larch’s ability to pursue further education without disrupting his professional life. He valued NC State’s commitment to ensuring online students felt integrated within the larger university community.
“NC State excels at making online students feel like a part of the campus community. The programs are academically rigorous yet structured to be manageable for working professionals,” he explained.
A Superior Educational Experience
John Larch regards his experience in the Master of Environmental Assessment program as pivotal for his career trajectory and professional maturation. The degree significantly sharpened his technical capabilities, especially in areas directly pertinent to his role.
“The program has been crucial in keeping my technical skills sharp and providing me with a more nuanced understanding of our agency’s work, particularly concerning PFAS sampling and related environmental issues,” John Larch remarked.
Faculty support was another highlight of John Larch’s experience. He specifically acknowledged the encouragement and influence of Professor Elizabeth Nichols, Assistant Teaching Professor Tamara Pandolfo, and Lecturer Stephen Graham.
“Throughout my time in the program, they were exceptionally supportive, offering guidance on academic challenges and showing understanding when external pressures impacted my coursework,” John Larch shared.
For professionals contemplating advanced education, John Larch offers clear advice: “If you are considering furthering your education while advancing your career, I wholeheartedly recommend online education, especially through NC State. The opportunity to continue learning is an investment that will yield substantial benefits over time.”
“The opportunity to continue your education is one that will pay many dividends down the road.”
Reflecting on his time at NC State and within the program, John Larch expresses unequivocal praise. “My experience at NC State was truly top-notch!” he affirmed.
As John Larch continues to address critical environmental issues in his ongoing role, the expertise and insights gained from the Master of Environmental Assessment program at NC State remain indispensable to his continued success and future contributions in safeguarding North Carolina’s environment.
Are you ready to elevate your career and deepen your expertise with the online Master of Environmental Assessment degree from NC State Online? Explore our program page or visit online.ncsu.edu/programs for a comprehensive overview of our degree and certificate offerings.
