It's an amazing journey full of obstacles but so rewarding, I promise.
Having worked in forest ecology for some years now, I can attest that it is a demanding profession. Don't let that, though, turn you off! It is very satisfying to make the kind of difference that we do in protecting our environment.
I was worried when I first started out about juggling my work and my family. Long days in the field looked like there wouldn't be much time left over for spending with my loved ones. But, suprise. Making that balance work is everything.
Consider my daughter. Being in the middle of nature, she is learning about trees, plants, and animals directly. She now includes our work into her life, and it is all worthwhile to witness her interest and passion for the natural world.
Seeing how deeply my daughter connects with nature has been incredibly fulfilling for me as a parent.
There is little else so beautful than a child's curiosity.
She was raised among forests, plants, and animals and has always been enthralled with the beauty of the natural world. Beyond what she could learn from textbooks alone, this practical experience has helped her to cultivate a sincere respect for the environment.
I've seen how our efforts to save the environment have permeated her everyday existence. On short walks (she is still small mind you) through verdant forests, she enthusiastically asks me, pointing out various plant species and paying close attention to the bird songs. She is insatiably curious and probes everything she sees to find out more about the complex ecology all around her.
Observing her love of the surroundings blossom right in front of my eyes is what makes my heart sing. From little insects to enormous trees, she treats all living things with respect and compassion. Her contagious passion for conservation and sustainability encourages people around her to act and change the world.
With my daughter, every minute we spend outdoors together is an opportunity to learn and to grow closer over our love of the natural world. Working together, we are making lifelong memories and engraining in her a strong sense of obligation to protect our world for coming generations.
Observing my daughter grow up in a natural setting gives me unfathomable happiness. It serves as a timely reminder of the need of developing in our kids a deep bond with the natural world and fostering their natural curiosity and admiration for all of its beauties. I'm hoping by raising her this way, she will live a lifelong love of the environment and will fight for its preservation long after I'm gone.
In forest ecology, you will work on conservation plans, study ecosystems, and carry out research. Working hands-on calls for commitment and enthusiasm (and a lot of time). But believe me when I say that the contribution you make to protecting our natural environment is unbelievably fulfilling.
You can manage to balance work and family if you're thinking about a career in forest ecology. I am proof of that. But you will also discover ways to share your love of the outdoors with those you care about. Tell them about your experiences, include them in projects if you can, and create memories in the great outdoors.
I hadn't though it possible, I was uncertain at first when it happened. But it is feasible. So don't worry if you are apprehensive about taking that plunge into the field of forest ecology, then rest assured you can do it. Accept the difficulties, enjoy the successes, and never forget that family is always welcome along the path of protecting our environment. Both professionally and personally, we can change things together.
