Oh, Ranger!

Growing up, my grandparents had a bayfront house in the Florida Keys. I devoted pretty much all of my time to exploring the area. With my grandmother's Tupperware in hand and a pair of raggedy sneakers I would walk along the mangrove and coral rock shore and marvel at the amazing world before me. First, with a mask and snorkel, and later with a SCUBA tank, my little expeditions uncovered an intricate, mesmerizing, jewel-like world of colors and organism diversity. The plant and animal life found in crevices, tidepools, mangrove roots, and sea grasses was so unique! From the first day I explored it, I knew South Florida's environment was my "happy place." I knew that I wanted my career to have something to do with this. 

Although it was my dream to work within nature, I spent many years working in corporate offices. In 2000, a visit to Biscayne National Park catapulted my career dream into something within my reach. Walking around the park, I was instantly reminded of my explorer days. I spoke to a ranger who encouraged me to volunteer in the park. I couldn't wait to get started! I wasn't sure what I wanted to do at the park but I started at the visitor center. The rangers were so knowledgeable and enthusiastic about what they were doing. I knew I wanted to do this forever! I had no idea this six-year journey would take me back to school and encourage me to learn a foreign language.

Today, I am no longer a volunteer, but I am a university senior, bilingual, and best of all, a member of the staff I admire, enjoying every day of my career in my "happy place." It was hard work, but well worth it! I share the contagious passion of the rangers that inspired and encouraged me. It's hard to not be passionate when you wouldn't want to be anywhere else doing anything else!