Job description
I guide birding and wildlife tours in a variety of countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Ethiopia, and Ecuador.
Why did you choose this program?
The Wildlife program at Humboldt State is one of the most respected in the country. I didn't know this when I applied though. While living in Ecuador and guiding, I frequently encountered folks in the country for wildlife tourism that were Humboldt State alumni. I knew I wanted to end up in a place that had a community of people who were deeply passionate about what they were studying.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
To find animals for people it takes a broad understanding of life history and behavior. The courses I took as a Wildlife major improved my understanding of important habitat features, animal migration, reproductive biology, activity patterns, and resource utilization. A wide variety of taxonomy courses gave me an invaluable ability to identify and understand the relationships between animal groups. Aside from the directly applicable knowledge - everything I learned about ecology, biology, and conservation helps me teach others about the wildlife communities we are interacting with. The program leaves you with the ability to understand the natural world and explain things in a way that inspires others.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
Everyone in the Wildlife program loves what they do. From a faculty of dedicated researchers with a huge array of interests to students who spend their weekends exploring the incredible natural wonders of the area, this is a major full of enthusiastic and like-minded people. Whether looking for Spotted Owls, fishing for King Salmon, photographing American Black Bears or wandering the campus in search of Pacific Giant Salamanders - this isn't just a course of study but a true passion for many enrolled. There is a real sense of community.
The courses have a strong field component that gets you outside and applying what you have been learning to real life situations. Perhaps most importantly, the professors in the Wildlife major are generous, patient and helpful. Whether it was help understanding something, career guidance or just a question I was particularly interested in, I always found open doors and supportive mentors.
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
If you're excited about wildlife, you'll be sure to find a program that offers individual attention and guidance, an incomparable environment to learn in and invaluable connections throughout your career. Take advantage of all the outside learning experiences offered as well. Sign up for weekend workshops where you can learn about animal tracking or radio telemetry! Volunteer with data collection for research projects. Join the student wildlife club - Conservation Unlimited - and take field trips, see the unparalleled beauty of the north coast, learn to identify animals. These activities will give you practical field skills you will be able to use your whole career and set you apart from other candidates when applying for jobs. Embrace the multitude of opportunities and resources that are there for you.
