Sara Stecewicz, Goodwin College Environmental Studies graduate, now lives in sunny California working as a lab technician at Rutherford Hill Winery in Napa Valley. The winery was founded in 1972 and takes advantage of its geographic setting to produce a high quality selection of wines with a focus on merlot.

Stecewicz’s interest in natural sciences and water systems originally inspired her to pursue Environmental Studies at Goodwin. After graduation, she managed to combine her interest in the environment with her passion for wine and create a uniquely successful career. She has worked in a variety of positions in wineries, from cellar work to vineyard management. In her current position, she uses her experience and knowledge of chemistry and microbiology to measure wine for levels of acid and sulfur.

“I love that I get to work with wine and live in a beautiful place. It feels like I’m in a chemistry lab all day,” she noted.

She credits Goodwin’s program for preparing her for a successful career in the field through a hands-on approach to learning and an emphasis on using education to join the workforce. “I feel that Goodwin was really focused on getting me started in a career.”

Stecewicz is very interested in environmental and urban planning and sees herself continuing her contribution to the environment for years to come.