My goal is to be an environmental scientist and artist. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by nature, spending hours exploring riverbeds and trails near my home and observing the unique characteristics of plants and animals. In high school, I studied marine biology and oceanography, and took classes in physical geography, environmental science, and geology of natural disasters at local community colleges. I am currently majoring in environmental studies at Reed College, but I am considering changing to a biology major with a focus on environmental ecology and ecosystems. I am learning how natural systems interact, how to interpret data from environmental science, the impact of human behavior and natural disasters on the environment and strategies for mitigating these issues. As a visual artist, I use environmental themes in my artwork and am pursuing a second major in film and media studies. I am intrigued by the connection between media and environmental conservation, and highlighting how environmental anime enhances public awareness and encourages change. Last summer, I volunteered at Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, focusing on research examining the effects of human activities on estuarine ecosystems and supporting restoration plans. My primary responsibilities included monitoring oyster survival, marsh-upland ecosystem habitats, and measuring water lines at high and low tides. I enjoyed working in diverse topographies like mud, water, and rocky soil and felt at home as I navigated the waist-deep water and muddy embankments at Elkhorn Slough.