I am a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison studying Life Sciences Communication and Conservation Biology.
I was born near Seattle, Washington and lived there until I was 12 years old before moving to St. Paul, Minnesota. Going to school in the Pacific Northwest, I remember taking field trips to a salmon hatchery, the water shed, and even going on a boat in Puget Sound to learn about how scientists study orca whale populations. These early experiences definitely shaped my understanding and connection with the natural world that I still hold today.
Moving to the Midwest, I learned that oceans and mountains are unique to certain parts of the world, and lakes and prairies dominate others. While this may seem like an elementary observation, the drastic change in scenery jump-started my interest in ecology and had me asking questions about why these differences occur.
While I have been interested in animals and nature from a young age, my interest in environmental issues truly began in fifth grade when my teacher started a club called "the Green Team". Myself and a group of three other students successfully campaigned for my school to begin using reusable lunch trays rather than styrofoam, as well as to instigate a "no idling" policy in the parking lot pick-up line.
I care about the environment because we share the planet with millions of species who are adversely affected by our actions.
After I graduate, I hope to get a job in conservation journalism or non-profit communications, focusing on environmental issues.
A fun fact about me is that I am very good at catching food in my mouth!