Systems are the foundation of life on our planet. Within each system, every component, whether it's animals, insects, fungi, bacteria, or even abiotic elements, plays a crucial role. If a component doesn't fulfill its role, the system becomes unbalanced and falls apart. Just as everything else on our planet, humans are a component of our Earth's systems. Our role is to live in a way that allows nature to thrive and use resources in a way that allows it to replenish itself, so future generations of all species can be supported. In short, it is our responsibility to live sustainably. However, our species has not fulfilled our role for many years, causing our planet to become unbalanced. Humans have heavily contributed to deforestation, pollution, high volumes of greenhouse gas emissions, and numerous other issues that have negatively impacted the environment. Our unsustainable activities, such as overfishing, consuming high amounts of single-use items, and fast fashion, have caused the planet's resources to be used up at a rate much faster than they can be replenished. Our species has upset the natural balance, heavily contributing to climate change, species extinction, habitat loss, and so many other irreversible impacts on our environment. However, there are still things that we can improve and restore, and it is our role to do so. I am currently a Wildlife Science major at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, New York. Completing my studies and earning my degree will give me the skills, knowledge, and credentials I need to fulfill my role. First, I want to work in rehabilitation, helping to nurture and heal the individuals who have suffered as a result of human actions, and to contribute to the research needed to restore their habitats and populations. Then, I want to work for an organization, such as the US Fish and Wildlife Service, that works toward conserving, protecting, and restoring wildlife populations and habitats. Throughout my career, I want to write books and materials that educate the public on the importance of wildlife and the environment. My writing will share my experiences, explain the importance of living sustainably, and share ways that anyone can do so. I want my work to not only contribute to restoring our environment, but to help people learn. Helping people understand the importance of sustainability is crucial, because professionals can work tirelessly to fix what we have ruined, but it won't make a difference for the future if more people don't start living sustainably. Just as the individual components of nature have crucial roles, everyone has a role in restoring and caring for our environment. I hope to fulfill my role while helping others find theirs.