Just texted to my college daughter.
MeiMei,
I am very happy that you are thinking of Columbia U., a very good university for your graduate studies. There are many good schools like Maryland U. Penn U. Georgetown U. Gorge Washington U., Duke, Emery, Penn State, West Virginia University, Virginia University, and many many good universities in America, especially in Pennsylvania state. Just say few for your info.
You may also get some work experience after your undergraduate study. There are many opportunities for environmental studies, especially in the government, any government, local, state and federal, for instance in Washington DC.
Or you may do some volunteer work in community service or in other countries in the world.
Just be open minded.
Thanks.
Love
Dad.