My name is Lauren Wilkinson and I am a student at the University of Florida. I am a senior in the Wildlife Ecology and Conservation program and plan to graduate in December 2014. I am from a small town called Palatka, Florida, about an hour east of Gainesville. Wildlife management has always been an interest of mine and I have wanted to work in this field for as long as I can remember. I was first introduced to wildlife as a career in high school when I began volunteering for the Department of Environmental Protection and have been working towards a wildlife degree ever since.  

I am extremely appreciative of the experience I am gaining through my internship at St. Marks. After graduating with my Bachelor of Science degree, I plan to gain more career experience by pursing a job with a wildlife agency. After a period of working and creating a focus for my career, I plan to return to school and begin working on my master’s degree. I would also love to travel to different refuges to experience the different wildlife and habitats.  

One thing that my internship here at St. Marks has taught me is just how important wildlife habitat is. Through our project on Bachman sparrow abundance, I have seen the fragility in their occupancy with subtle changes in the environment. I am excited to learn more about and participate in habitat treatments such as prescription fire this summer.  

When I am not studying or working, I spend my time riding my horse, Pepper, fishing with my brothers, or playing with my puppy, Bailey. I go trail riding as a way to peacefully enjoy the outdoors. I am beginning to learn a fair number of bird species and I can’t wait to put my skills to the test on my next ride. I am also involved in a sorority at UF. Though being in a sorority may not seem like a common activity for a wildlife student, through Phi Mu I have made many important connections that led me to volunteer work with agencies such as Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. I plan to continue volunteering this fall.  

Once again, I am extremely appreciative of the experience this internship has given me so far. I am gaining valuable career skills while also helping to conserve and protect the wildlife here at St. Marks. Thank you for helping me to do this and I can’t wait to continue this summer!