Before starting college, Carissa Unger already knew where she wanted to go. “I chose to attend UW-Madison because the horticulture department here is outstanding, while also small enough to be personal,” says Carissa, now a junior majoring in horticulture.

And she dove into the college experience headfirst. During her freshman year, Carissa became involved in GreenHouse Learning Community, a sustainability-focused residence hall. She was able to bond with floormates through trips to community gardens and even a seminar that included a study abroad experience in El Salvador.

Carissa is a busy and dedicated student. In classes, she aspires to learn as much as she can about sustainable agriculture and permaculture, inspired by her dream to become a plant breeder of vegetable crops. Her hard work was recognized recently when she was selected to receive the David Curwen Student Enhancement Fund award this past fall.

To unwind, Carissa works in D.C. Smith Greenhouse on campus. She recently joined the executive board of the UW Hoofers Mountaineering Club, and she goes rock climbing in her free time. She also enjoys sailing on the lake on windy summer days.