Bachelor of Science, 2000
Major: Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

WEC provides great opportunities in this arena! While an undergraduate in WEC (1998-2000), I was active in the student chapter of the Wildlife Society, and I completed two internships with federal agencies. In 1998, I conducted endangered bird surveys for the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). After graduation, I worked at the headquarters of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) as a biological intern. Participating in UF's chapter of the Wildlife Society and internships provided me with opportunities to network with wildlife professionals, valuable field experience, and insights into the intricacies of federal employment.

I am now a graduate student in WEC supported by a cooperative education agreement of the U.S. Geological Survey through the Student Career Experience Program (SCEP). This program covers the cost of my graduate education and, in exchange, I work part-time as a biologist for the USGS. Much of my time is devoted

to the USGS research program aimed at understanding global amphibian declines. My own thesis research focuses on the natural history of large aquatic salamanders in the Southeastern United States. After graduating, I plan to continue to work for the federal government as a wildlife biologist. This experience with USGS gives me a headstart!