Tell us about your study abroad experience.
For the first four weeks of the summer, I got the opportunity to visit Poitiers, France, and learn about local history and environmental policy. I stayed with a host family that mostly spoke French, so I picked up a lot of the language, and got firsthand experience with the culture. Every day was different; some days I would take the bus to the University and learn in a traditional classroom setting, but many days we would learn in the field. We received presentations from wildlife refuge park rangers, employees of various environmental organizations, and even an elected representative, Léonore Moncond’huy. She’s only 24 years old and works with people of different political views to pass environmental legislation. The most fun part was the trip we took down to Bordeaux to experience the world famous wine and explore a new city.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself finishing graduate school and working for an international environmental organization, preferably one that focuses on wildlife like the World Wildlife Fund or a United Nations initiative. AgSci is helping me get there by allowing me to take advantage of many opportunities like studying abroad and being able to learn about wildlife issues so that I am prepared to tackle them in my career.
Take advantage of every opportunity that interests you.
What made you choose Fisheries & Wildlife as your major?
I have always had a passion for wildlife, and nothing would make me happier than a career protecting it. I hope that my studies impact society in the future by fostering an environment of stewardship of our natural places and a sense of wonder at the incredible wildlife we are privileged to share the world with.
What challenges have you faced in continuing your education, and how did you overcome them?
What has been challenging to me is mostly the same things that are challenging to other students: doing well in difficult classes, juggling multiple activities, and trying to find enough time to give each its due effort. I overcame them by never losing track of my end goal to graduate with the most experience I can get and in the best position possible to enter the working world being able to do what I want to do. I have learned how to effectively manage my time so that I can succeed at a variety of things.
What advice would you give to incoming students?
My advice would be to take advantage of every opportunity that interests you. Even if you’re not sure how it relates to your major, or if you’re wondering whether or not you have time for it, chances are you won’t regret it if you go for it, and it might take you somewhere you didn’t even know you wanted to go.