Megan King (’13)

“There are so many different global health issues and to be able to shed light on some of those issues by using film as a way to engage the public is something that I want to do.”


—Megan King


Loren Pope’s book, 40 Colleges That Change Lives, was Megan King’s introduction to Allegheny College; however, her desire to pursue the unusual combination of environmental studies and film production solidified her decision to become a Gator. As she progressed through her environmental studies courses, she became increasingly interested in environmental health issues and realized there was an opportunity to combine her passions.

graduation_allegheny

“I realized I was more interested in the human side of environmental issues,” she said. “There are so many different global health issues and to be able to shed light on some of those issues by using film as a way to engage the public is something that I want to do.”

During the spring of her junior year, Megan studied abroad in Monetverde, Costa Rica. As part of her course of study, she took a conservation biology class, a Costarican natural history class, and a sustainability class. She also participated in an internship for a month with a conservation/reforestation organization.

“Through my internship I was able to use my video production skills to create a short promotional video and website for the organization that I worked with – the Costarican Conservation Foundation,” she said. “Allegheny is all about experiential learning and, by going abroad, I found all of my experiences proving this to be true. Additionally, my host family taught me how truly international smiles are.”

When it came time to begin her Senior Comp, Megan consulted with Professor Caryl Waggett.

“I was taking a video activism class and I went to talk to Dr. Waggett about potential topics. She mentioned a community water fluoridation effort that was starting in the local area. I realized that this was no small topic and it would be a very important issue to focus my Senior Comp around,” she said.

Over the course of her senior year, she created a 14-minute video to share with the Meadville Area Water Authority and city council – a project that provided her many poignant learning experiences and provided the local community with greater insight into the importance of taking action around this health issue.

“My goal was to give the fluoridation team a concrete tool to help them articulate why community water fluoridation is critical.”

Megan graduated from Allegheny in May 2013. She will continue her passion for global health and film as she begins a new position with the DC Environmental Film Festival.

“My major and minor has realized my love and passion for environmental film. Working for a festival that screens films to ignite change and prompt discussion seems like a very fitting job.”


Watch Megan’s Video

“What’s on Tap? Water Fluoridation in Meadville, PA”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSfLZuBWFuM