What led you to a natural resources education/career?
I was fortunate enough have been raised by parents who both work in natural resources and surrounded by immediate family who interact intimately with the land daily. My childhood involved as much woods-wandering and mountain-climbing as it did indoor time, cultivating a deep-seated curiosity, wonder, and respect for the natural world. The first job I ever wanted as a child was as a bat biologist, followed by a slew of other natural resource related jobs. Pursing a career in restoration and natural resources presents a way for me to give back to the land that raised me almost as surely as my family did.
What do you identify as your 'big break?' Did CSU have anything to do with it?
I am newly graduated (May 2021) and would like to think that my big break is still to come. However, I will be moving to Ecuador for 10 months to complete a Fulbright research position related to high-elevation wetlands. I have received an excellent education and have found wonderful support and opportunities through my time at CSU. My passion for restoration truly developed here and I think my path would look very different if I had pursued a similar program at another institution.
What advice do you have for current students or recent grads?
You may hear (or already have heard) a lot of different advice surrounding how your career should unfold. What has always worked for me is to always choose the opportunity that makes you happy, even if it may not follow an obviously linear path. It can make life feel more uncertain, but it has been instrumental in my own journey. Also, do not be afraid to make opportunities for yourself. The most rewarding experiences I have had at CSU were not jobs that I applied to, but experiences and positions I crafted with professors. Be creative, stay curious, and don’t forget to play.
Any recent professional awards or distinctions you may have received?
Fulbright Selected Scholar 2021