Over the summer of 2025, Lukas Kosel traveled to China with the Baucus Institute's Climate Scholars program. Read about his experience below:

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I am extremely grateful for the time I spent working in China through the Baucus Institute's Climate Scholars program. It provided me with a range of cultural, personal, and professional experiences I truly wouldn't have had as an undergraduate student otherwise. I got firsthand experience working with NGOs, including the Make-A-Wish program and the World Wildlife Fund, and helped operate volunteer programs at children's hospitals and libraries across Shanghai. Beyond the invaluable experience gained, I am truly grateful for the connections I made in my time over the summer. Traveling, and specifically working, abroad like this provided me with perspective and a willingness to continue learning and encouraging others to experience things before passing judgment.

Working in China this summer was one of the most challenging experiences of my life, and it was among the most fulfilling because of that. There were things I felt I failed at, as with any learning experience, that drove me to work harder still. As just one example, going to a children's hospital to help spread joy, but being unable to communicate with the children directly or to listen to their stories and needs effectively is a sobering experience. The people I encountered were exceedingly kind and patient with me, and that made me want even more to do better. This summer pushed me, and I would recommend such an experience to anyone who wants to learn more about themselves and the world while gaining both the perspective and expertise necessary to advance in their field.

Lukas smiles alongside his team of Volunteers. Lukas smiles with his basketball teammates Lukas at Shanghai Disneyland ParkLukas with Friends in China posing in a photo set.

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