Pittsburgh Review

Minerva Schafer, a recent graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, emphasizes the importance of sustainability in both her professional and personal life. With degrees in chemistry and environmental and sustainability studies, Schafer's original plan was to attend graduate school immediately after graduation. However, she decided to take a gap year to focus on self-care.

“My plans after graduation are not entirely what I expected at the beginning,” said Schafer. “Around the time of the application cycle, I decided to take a gap year and focus on self-care.”

Schafer came out as transgender in the fall of 2023, sharing her experience at the Department of Chemistry diploma ceremony. “Coming out in my senior year was kind of the hardest decision I ever made," she stated. "I worried it would upend so many different aspects of my life... But I made the decision, and my life is so much better for it in so many ways."

She advised those facing difficult decisions to trust their emotions and seek support from trusted individuals. Schafer has found a supportive community at Carnegie Mellon and Pittsburgh as she continues her journey.

For the next year, Schafer will continue her research at the Institute for Green Science and Collins Lab while applying to Ph.D. programs. Directed by Terrence J. Collins, the lab focuses on designing catalysts known as TAMLs that break down micropollutants with environmental applications.

“Sometimes you just need to trust your emotions as a guide and look to people in your life you can trust to navigate the changes with you,” she reiterated.

A member of Collins Lab since 2021, Schafer has developed an interest in transition metal catalysts and their use in wastewater treatment through TAMLs. She has also explored chemical pollution distribution.

Reflecting on her academic journey, Schafer expressed readiness for future endeavors while integrating her interests in environmental history, policy, and rhetoric into her work.

Recognized for her dedication, Schafer has consistently been on the dean’s list and received accolades such as the Goldwater Scholarship and various research fellowships.

She encourages students to remain open-minded about their paths during college: “There are a lot of people who have a clear vision... It’s in their best interest to explore as much as they can... You are not a weaker or lesser person if the path you take is not the ideal you envision.”