Starting soon, freshmen can earn $500 per semester for going green.
The Penn State Campus Sustainability Office is accepting applications for the new Eco-Rep Program, which aims to increase environmentally friendly lifestyles.
“[The Eco-Rep Program] is for freshmen who want to encourage their peers to live responsible lifestyles,” Campus Sustainability Office program coordinator Milea Perry. “It is a life-building program.”
Accepted students will be paid $500 per semester and are expected to turn off electronics when not using them, wash laundry with cold water, take the stairs instead of the elevator and recycle, among other eco-friendly habits. They’ll also have to attend mandatory weekly meetings.
Perry said the program was modeled after Penn State psychology professor Janet Swim and her graduate students’ energy challenge during the spring semester of last year.
Students were hired to promote energy conservation and to educate others on the importance of being environmentally aware.
“Eco-Rep programs are more popular at smaller universities,” Perry said. “But it is important that Penn State becomes involved in this challenge to live responsible, sparing lives on campus.”
The program has the support of the student government.
University Park Undergraduate Association (UPUA) President Christian Ragland said he encourages first-year students to take the initiative and adopt green lifestyles in their residence halls.
“We at Penn State take the lead in many aspects of student life and charity,” Ragland (senior-political science) said. “[The] Eco-Rep Program shows leadership and initiative opportunities for outstanding students who want to take the challenge and help educate their fellow students.”
Some students said they support the program.
Jon Schoepf said the Eco-Rep program is a great way for students to learn the importance of living an eco-friendly lifestyle while setting a positive example for their peers.
“So much energy is being wasted and people in the residence halls don’t seem to care whether they should recycle or not,” Schoepf (freshman-professional golf management) said.