get that ball rolling

there was never any question where my passion lay.  it has always come as an uncomplicated gravitation to the intricacies of living creatures, of their roles and interactions, and i've always paid close attention.  in fact it consumed my attention.

it consumed my compassion.  i have been a vegetarian (or at least mostly so) since i was a teenager.  protecting the environment, even in the small way i could contribute, even one animal or plant at a time, became my role.  i have felt a deep sense of responsibility to preserve the health of this fragile, deeply beautiful, and universally precious mosaic of life.

my entire education has been focused around learning these ecological relationships.  as a teacher, even as a substitute, my emphasis has been on recognition and reverence of nature.  as a biology teacher, i have had an exceptional opportunity to introduce and inspire many hundreds of young minds to how life works, while pitching my conservation philosophy.  i've always believed education is a cornerstone of conservation, and as these kids become familiar with molecular, biochemical, intra- and inter-species interactions, they appreciate and value nature.

i believe that the comprehensive approach to ecological conservation of habitat restoration and preservation, setting aside wilderness areas, encouraging community activism and involvement, and reducing/offsetting the fragmentation of habitats in urban settings by incorporating native landscaping, installing nature corridors, and emphasis on sustainability in planning infrastructures.

the present state of ecological conservation is based on complicated policies that are at odds with economic growth.  in order to participate and contribute effectively, i believe i must be familiar with these challenges and understand how to navigate through these policies.  i've had my eye on a conservation biology masters program for seven years, and in the time that i've considered and pursued many other programs, this path has only become more compatible with my goals and experiences.

i'm the only scientist in my family.  though my parents strongly emphasized the importance of education, they did not pursue post-graduate degrees, and so i will be the first in my family to earn a masters and then hopefully a doctoral degree.

my achievements have always been hard-won, because i set high standards for myself and believe in honoring what i believe in by pursuing my goals with integrity.  i worked full time and attended school full time, and am concurrently teaching high school biology and ap bio while finishing the last few courses necessary to earn a secondary teaching certification.  my experiences have humbled me and inspired me; even one person can influence a movement.  i believe this masters program can help me reach the potential of my strengths and to help me apply my experiences to a career in applied conservation/habitat restoration.

i am strongest in a dynamic environment with challenges that require creative, compassionate, and resourceful problem-solving.  i feel my strengths are very compatible with the pursuits of this program.