Geology Alum Shares Success Story Five Years After Graduation from York

Jasmin Budhan, a Geology graduate of the York College Class of 2019, is making strides in her career as a materials analyst in the field of sustainability.

Jasmin Budhan, a Geology graduate of the York College Class of 2019, is making strides in her career as a materials analyst in the field of sustainability.

After earning her Master’s in Sustainability from Tufts University in 2022, Budhan credits her success to the strong foundation provided during her undergraduate years but credit also goes to her for taking every opportunity to thrive. Dr. Nazrul Khandaker, who mentored Budhan at York, highlighted that her acceptance to graduate school at Tufts was bolstered by her undergraduate research.

"Jasmin impressed us all by being accepted into Tufts' MS program in Sustainability after completing the Geology program at York,” he said. “Her undergraduate research, conference presentations, and three-time Abbey Duncan Brownfield Scholarship helped strengthen her application,” Dr. Khandaker recalls. “Jasmin also gained valuable experience through field geology in New Zealand, a result of the Chancellor’s Global Scholarship.”

Dr. Khandaker emphasized York’s commitment to supporting minority students in conducting research and gaining practical knowledge. “The Geology program at York has a long history of helping students, particularly minorities, engage in research and present at conferences, said Khandaker. “This has helped many students secure graduate school placements and professional opportunities.”

Budhan reflects on the importance of her York education in shaping her career. “My time at York College gave me the foundation for my passion and career in sustainability, said Budhan. “I was fortunate to be mentored by Dr. Khandaker and others, who encouraged me to pursue research and explore my love for geoscience. “Dr. Khandaker, in particular, challenged my thinking and showed me the significance of research.”

While at York, her research journey led her to present at the Geological Society of America (GSA) and intern with the Mayor’s Office of Environmental Remediation, gaining hands-on experience in urban development and environmental policy.

“The internship exposed me to fieldwork, networking, and real-world applications of environmental policy,” Budhan explained, adding that with Professor Khandaker’s support, she also had the opportunity to study abroad in New Zealand, further expanding her global perspective on geology and sustainability.

Budhan’s Master’s degree in Sustainability from Tufts focused on policy and planning. She worked on a project with the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), evaluating sustainable building materials and recommending policies for low-carbon alternatives in construction. “This experience deepened my commitment to sustainability and urban development,” she said. She has also gained experience working with companies in the fashion and cosmetics industries, helping them develop sustainability roadmaps and reduce their environmental footprint.

Her current role as a materials analyst involves advising clients on sustainable building materials and compliance with environmental standards such as LEED and WELL. She collaborates with architects and consultants to promote sustainable building practices and support clients in achieving their sustainability goal, she has said.

Reflecting on her journey, Budhan is grateful for the mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration she experienced at York College. “The support I received at York, especially from the SEEK program and my mentors, shaped my career path. I know I can always reach out to them for guidance as I continue to grow in my professional career.”