What is your previous work experience?

For the past two years, I have participated in AmeriCorps programs working as a land conservation professional, a mentor to young professionals, and a wildland firefighter. My time with AmeriCorps shaped my passions for youth development, land restoration and protection, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Prior to my time with AmeriCorps, I was living and working in Australia; during this time, I had a variety of jobs, including Penguin Guide for a colony of penguins in Melbourne, AUS.

Why did you choose the Nicholas School?

I chose the Nicholas School because I liked that it offers classes and organizations that provide a professional experience that I could quickly transfer to my career outside of school. The Nicholas School also stood out to me because of the vast network of environmental professionals that have come out of the program. I am excited to connect with past students and hopefully, keep those connections for years to come.

What are you looking forward to as a new Nicholas School student?

I am looking forward to diving into all the resources and opportunities that the Nicholas School has to offer. I am excited about the different student organizations, certificate programs, and networking available to me. I am also looking forward to meeting my classmates and joining a community of people who have similar passions to my own.

Do you have any areas of interest or special focus you will undertake during your time at the Nicholas School?

Within my overarching interest in land management, my current focus is mapping, and I am really looking forward to learning GIS through the certificate program. I have seen mapping provide incredible insight for various professions, and I would like to gain the skills to be a GIS professional.

What plans do you have for your career after the Nicholas School?

I would like to work for an organization that manages lands that need human intervention with a holistic approach. It has been evident in my career so far that there is so much intersection within the land management field. It is essential for organizations to evolve to include all the impacted entities and communities, and my hope is to use the skills I gain from the Nicholas School to bring them together.