"Working for the environment and getting paid to do it - how awesome can that get?" said sophomore Nick Evans. Evans is one of the six paid student workers who collect recycled products from the recycling bins around campus.

"We began hiring students to do this work last school year," said Recycling Coordinator Jennifer Hackett. "They do the hard work of collecting the recycling as well as keeping data on how much recycling we are capturing in residence halls."

Most of these students got involved because they are passionate about the environment.

"We, as students, should act responsibly and take the time to recycle because it a small act that can make a significant impact on our environment," said sophomore worker Sara Crow.

"(This job) has changed my previous employment attitude of ǃÚGreat. Gotta go to work' into something I have complete pride in," Evans said. "Not only is it fun, but it encourages the sustainability this country needs to adopt."

Many of these students' commitments to environmental awareness extend beyond their time at Vanderbilt.

"I grew up in an environmentally-friendly home, so I have understood the mechanics of recycling for quite some time. I also genuinely like the environment," said senior worker Chester Polson. "I have spent a lot of time outdoors and am working on a thesis with an environmental focus."

Crow said she believes the number of students who recycle has increased but laments that more students do not sort their recycling and break down their cardboard boxes. She said it is important for students to realize their peers are collecting the recycling.

Polson noted that glass bottles, used tissues and items contaminated with food are not recyclable at Vanderbilt.

"While it is great to try to recycle as much as possible, when it comes to the specific item in your hand, a good rule of thumb is, ǃÚwhen in doubt, throw it out,'" Polson said.

Students interested in getting involved should contact Hackett at jennifer.a.hackett@vanderbilt.edu.