Gabriel “Gabe” Santiago has always approached academics with curiosity and interdisciplinarity. From his University Honors Vantage Point project exploring the relationship between pop culture, musicology, and climate change to his publication in UMD’s Interpolations: Journal of Academic Writing focused on the nuanced discourse of cultural borrowing in the fashion world, Gabe is not afraid to tackle big topics from a multitude of perspectives. So it’s no surprise that he was recently named a 2025 NOAA Undergraduate Hollings Scholar. This prestigious two-year program awards recipients with financial assistance and a paid, 10-week summer internship with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The internship provides scholars with hands-on, practical experience in NOAA-related science, research, technology, policy, management, and education activities. The award also includes travel funds to attend a mandatory NOAA Scholarship Program orientation, the annual Science & Education Symposium, and scientific conferences where students present their research.
Gabe interned with The Maryland General Assembly as an Energy and Environmental Policy Federal Fellow. During this experience, he noted his surprise that many public and environmental policymakers, both at the state and federal levels, lacked a deep understanding of the science behind the environmental decisions they were making. This realization was part of his motivation to apply for the Hollings Scholarship, as a step toward bridging the gaps he witnessed between science and policy. “As someone passionate about innovative solutions to climate change adaptation and mitigation, I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to this mission through NOAA’s work over the next two years, even amidst uncertainty from the current administration,” says Gabe.
As an Environmental Science and Policy major within University Honors, Santiago’s approach to academics is inherently interdisciplinary. “Through University Honors, I’ve learned to approach complex issues from multiple angles and to value interdisciplinary thinking. These skills,” he said, “are essential to the mission of the Hollings Scholarship, which lies at the intersection of science and research, communication, and public service.” Santiago thanks UH professors Dr. Jordan Johnson (Vantage Point Seminar), Tyson Slocum (Climate in Crisis: Strategy & Advocacy) and Dr. Jonathan Dinman (Climate Change, Infectious Disease, & Civil Society) specifically for their support of his academic growth. “Their classes have nurtured my scientific curiosity about the environmental problems we face, and their mentorship has guided my commitment to shaping policy solutions,” he states.
“This is so well deserved,” said Dr. Johnson of Gabe’s appointment. “Gabe’s attention to thoughtful project management and his passion for environmental policy enriched the experience of our class throughout the semester. Gabe brought a sense of intellectual curiosity to each conversation, excelling in class discussions as well as individual assignments and workshops. He also demonstrated an eagerness to explore interdisciplinary approaches to environmental studies, most notably in his final which culminated in an interdisciplinary art project on climate change, eco-anxiety, musicology, and pop culture. I know he will do amazing things working with NOAA!”