Protecting the environment is my career plan, goal, and my purpose in life. After graduating from the University of Florida I plan to achieve my purpose. By using my degree in Natural Resource Conservation, I will become an Environmental Specialist or Officer with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Through these career fields, my main goal is to conserve and protect wildlife and ecosystems through means of public education and habitat restoration. Nature's bounty has its limits and without active restoration from damage contributed by the past and present the results can be irreversible. Majoring in Natural Resource Conservation has opened my eyes to the wonders of nature that have been around me for years, unnoticed by formerly untrained eyes. Beginning at an early age I have always been fascinated by nature and found my role model when I discovered The Crocodile Hunter. From Steve Irwin's magnificent show, I was able to experience nature at a grand scale I had never seen before, leaving me infatuated. Irwin's inspiration, personality, and words lead me out into the woods to look for and discover the wonders of my own ecosystems. I found Irwin's words on environmental education to be timeless “I believe that education is all about being excited about something. Seeing passion and enthusiasm helps push an educational message” (Steve Irwin). As an adult, I embrace these words and immerse myself in my education in natural resource conservation. Throughout my education, my passion for environmental conservation has expanded immensely and has supplied a foundation to conserve nature's bounty for future generations. This is achievable by spreading knowledge of the importance of wildlife and habitat conservation. Working for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission I am striving to join a department that specializes in invasive species removal. I found that the study of Taxonomy within my education is one of the most crucial aspects to become successful in the field. Being able to identify species and their native habitat is critical to stopping the invasion method while the intern supports fragile ecosystems. Protecting habitats from invasive species is a constant effort as new species are making their way to our lands with ever-expanding human presence. It is my goal to use my education to help prevent this spread and stop the habitual damage these species cause. Within my lifetime I hope to make a difference not only in the expansion and conservation of nature but also inspire the youth who will one day take the reins in leading the effort of habitat restoration and protection.