The Green House

in Student's Blog, Summer 2016
August 18th, 2016

by Pedro Virguez (Summer 2016)

Having spent three months in DC forming part of the Boston University Washington D.C. study abroad summer program, I can say that I feel more prepared than ever before for my post college career. The program enabled me to get out of my comfort zone by implementing courses (Democracy and Democratization) into my academic track that I never thought I would be incorporating. It also gave me the chance to work for the Entrepreneurs’ Organization, which has been by far the most enriching experience here in D.C.

But how does this incorporate to my never ending thirst to learn about new “green” businesses? Well, so far I have learned, especially in the nation’s capital that there is a trend of renewable energy policies and businesses. I was especially amazed by how well connected everyone in D.C. really is and how, if you manage it correctly it can benefit you in ways that you never thought possible. For example, we had a speaker named Gina (which coincidentally landed me my job) that at the end of her lecture offered me the possibility to meet with renewable energy think tank members. D.C. is filled with opportunities like this and it would amaze you how you can quickly find new jobs and opportunities that could change your future.

In addition, I learned after watching Cowspiracy, for a class assignment that the single most pressing issue for the well-being of our planet is actually animal agriculture. I found it astonishing how the biggest cause of greenhouse gases is an industry that does not get a high degree of attention by the media for its polluting effects. This is when I completely realized how on a negative way organizations are ran by money and influential individuals. I cannot say I was surprised, but it did through me off the idea that the single most damaging industry according to the documentary gets such low attention from organizations that are dedicated to helping our planet. This is when I realized that there are so many different ideas for businesses in our changing global world. I understood then and there that if you want to see something change you must have an active role in the transformation of what you want.

After reflecting on my issue of interest I found myself falling into the midst of contemplating so many different ideas that I could not concentrate in a specific one. Keeping that in mind I remembered how there are a lot of government organizations that promote “green” businesses with tax breaks and other incentives. That led me to realize how in the United States and particularly in D.C. how these government institutions can help push a business forward when it is in both parties interest.

Therefore, this program and this city gave me the possibility to acquire something you cannot buy, which is a different way of thinking and analyzing issues. I understand now how I can leverage my connections in order to grow my business and make it a profitable green business that at the same time works to make this world a better place.

Pedro is a rising senior studying Entrepreneurship and International management with a minor is Sustainable Energy and interning at The Entrepreneurs’ Organization.