At age 10:I discovered the Kids For Saving Earth Club at my local Safeway. I never joined, but I always picked up a copy of the newsletter and diligently read what other kids around the country were doing for the planet, and planned to one day make a difference myself.
At age 13: I met the teacher who would change my life. The teacher who would inspire me and teach me one of the most important lessons of my life. He taught me that we all have the power to make a difference and the choices we make and the actions we take, are the way that we can be a part of positive environmental change.
At age 17: I enrolled in college and spent the next two years fulfilling the requirements for an Environmental Studies Diploma at a local college. In this time I participated in amazing field activities and developed both my skill set and frame of mind immeasurably.
At age 18: I got my first glimpse of non-profit stewardship work. I would spend the next four summers coordinating and leading environmental activities for teenagers. We removed invasive species, educated children, explored composting, waterwise gardening and played a key role in the maintenance of our local community garden.
At age 20: I met a fun-loving amazing man, who despite my best efforts, I seemed unable to stay away from.
At age 20: I enrolled in University and would spend the next 3 years studying Biology (ecology/botany) and Environmental Studies until I completed my Bachelor's of Science Degree.
At age 23: I began my career un-glamorously working in a toxicity lab, testing water samples. This gave me experience in the science field, allowed me to utilize and develop my scientific lab skills and helped me realize that I am too social of a person to work in a lab. A wonderful growth experience.
At age 24: I returned to stewardship work and spent a year coordinating a volunteer group that embarks on outdoor activities anywhere from one to four times a week. I love the activities, I love the volunteers, I love inspiring people and I love getting dirty and doing something positive for my environment. I encourage everyone to get involved in local community efforts.
At age 25: The previously mentioned man becomes my loving husband and we embark on the rest of our life together.
At age 25: I am about to embark on the next stage of my career. I will be working as an assistant environmental coordinator for the government. Another change, another step towards my future…time will tell what exactly that means.
