Sustainability must be a top priority in the field of freshwater sciences because water is the foundation of life, and its availability and quality are under serious threat. Climate change, pollution, overuse, and habitat destruction are rapidly degrading our aquatic ecosystems. These systems not only supply drinking water and support biodiversity, but also regulate temperature, manage floods, and sustain agricultural and industrial development. If we do not act with long-term sustainability in mind, we risk losing these crucial services and damaging our planet beyond repair. My commitment to sustainability is deeply personal. As a mother, I want my children to inherit a world where clean water is not a luxury, but a given. I want them to live in communities that value nature, respect science, and work together to protect the resources that sustain life. That’s why I chose to pursue a degree in Freshwater Sciences with a minor in Environmental Management at Northeastern State University. This path allows me to align my passion for the environment with a career that will create real-world impact. My education has already laid a strong foundation. I’ve completed coursework in chemistry, statistics, biology, limnology, and ecology, all of which are essential to understanding how aquatic systems function and how human activities affect them. I am especially drawn to the intersections of science, policy, and public education. I believe we must not only conduct research and monitor water quality, but also engage communities in sustainable practices and empower them to take action. Through my volunteer work with the Oklahoma Conservation Commission, I’ve had hands-on experience as a freshwater quality field technician. I’ve assisted in collecting macroinvertebrate samples, conducted stream assessments, and participated in fish sampling using seining and electroshock methods. These activities have deepened my understanding of how to evaluate aquatic health and have reinforced my desire to contribute to long-term conservation solutions. In the future, I hope to work in watershed management, environmental consulting, or conservation planning. I want to help design and implement strategies that reduce pollution, restore aquatic habitats, and improve water management systems in ways that are both sustainable and equitable. I aim to be a part of collaborative efforts between scientists, policymakers, and the public to reduce our environmental footprint and build resilience against climate impacts. To me, sustainability in this field is about protecting freshwater resources while also addressing broader climate challenges. It involves making informed decisions based on data, being proactive in conservation efforts, and continuously educating the public. I hope to serve not only as a scientist, but as a bridge between communities and the environment—ensuring that every step we take today contributes to a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable tomorrow. This work is about legacy—leaving the world better than we found it. With the education I’m receiving and the experience I’m building, I’m committed to being part of that change.

I’ve always felt a deep connection to the natural world, but becoming a mother intensified that passion into purpose. As I raise my children, I think constantly about the world they’re inheriting. Clean water, breathable air, stable weather patterns, and thriving ecosystems should be a guarantee—not a privilege. That belief drives my commitment to environmental protection. I see environmental stewardship not just as a career path, but as a personal mission to safeguard the health and future of my family, my community, and the planet. I’m pursuing a degree in Freshwater Sciences with a minor in Environmental Management at Northeastern State University. My academic focus equips me with a strong foundation in ecology, chemistry, and conservation strategies. I’ve already earned an Associate of Science in STEM and have taken courses in general chemistry, statistics, biology, and environmental science. Through classes in limnology and ecology, I’m learning how aquatic ecosystems function and respond to human activity—knowledge critical in combating the effects of climate change such as water scarcity, rising temperatures, and biodiversity loss. Outside of the classroom, I’ve volunteered with the Oklahoma Conservation Commission as a freshwater quality field technician, helping collect macroinvertebrate samples, conducting stream assessments, and participating in fish population surveys using seining and electroshock methods. This hands-on experience confirmed that fieldwork is where I thrive and where I can make the greatest impact. I hope to one day work in conservation planning, water resource management, or environmental outreach—especially in underserved communities where climate resilience is most needed and the importance for environmental health is not as thought of. When I talk to friends and family about climate change, I emphasize that making small habit changes can collectively lead to big impact. That even small things make large impacts on the environment around us. I encourage them to reduce single-use plastic, choose energy-efficient appliances, eat more plant-based meals, conserve water, have an appreciation for the wildlife and nature around us, and recycle properly. But I also stress the importance of civic action—voting for leaders and policies that prioritize sustainability is crucial. I remind them that their voices matter, and so do their everyday choices. My passion stems from love—love for my children, for science, for nature, and for the environment as a whole. With my education and field experience, I’m committed to being part of the solution and helping others do the same. Together, we can build a more sustainable world for not only those today but the future generations to follow.