What Type Of Person Thrives In The Conservation Industry, According To A Community Science Coordinator At Sonoma Ecology Center
Maria's greatest enjoyment stems from "finding that community" of like-minded individuals passionate about sustainability and environmental work, ranging from academics to those involved in practical conservation efforts like fire mitigation. This community extends to a professional network, exemplified by Maria's involvement in the "Young Conservationists of Color" affinity group, fostering both career development and a sense of belonging.
Community Building, Environmental Sustainability, Networking, Career Development, Conservation
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Maria Maurico
Volunteer Coordinator/Community Science Coordinator
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park (Sonoma Ecology Center)
California State University - Sacramento
NA
Biology & Related Sciences
Climate, Environment, Sustainability & Waste Management, Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Climate, Environment and Sustainability
Video Highlights
1. Connecting with like-minded people and building a strong sense of community within the environmental field.
2. Working with a diverse range of individuals, from academics to sustainability enthusiasts, on various environmental projects.
3. Networking and professional development opportunities, such as joining affinity groups like the Young Conservationists of Color, to collaborate and grow with peers.
Transcript
What do you enjoy most about being in your industry?
The thing I like most about being in this industry is the way I'm able to connect with like-minded people. I've found a community where I feel I belong.
I encounter a mix of people very into academia or sustainability. You're in a web of what the environment means for people and what they're working on. It's about finding that community for myself.
I can quickly find someone who wants to talk about goats, sheep, and fire mitigation, as that's something I do at my house. I also meet many young people my age who are developing their careers.
I joined an affinity group called the Young Conservationists of Color after a conference this summer. It's a community for people from minority groups to come together, grow, and support each other, which is really great.