These summers held a special place in my heart as they allowed me to step out of the classroom and immerse myself in the world of scientific exploration. It was during these seasons that I eagerly anticipated the opportunity to become a scientist in practice, applying the knowledge I had gained in the classroom to real-world scientific topics. Although these summers were arduous and seemingly endless at times, they proved to be incredibly enriching experiences, both intellectually and morally.
In the past two weeks, I had the opportunity to further expand my field work expertise by participating in field training at the USFS Rocky Mountain Research Station. This training involved familiarizing myself with data collection protocols alongside new field members and experienced leaders. It was during this time that I truly appreciated the resilience, toughness, and camaraderie of the people on the ground who collect crucial data for scientific research. Whether it was spending time with field crews in Massachusetts or now in the Rocky Mountains, I encountered individuals with diverse backgrounds and fascinating stories that paralleled the importance of the work being carried out. From those who had bravely fought forest fires as forest firefighters to those rehabilitating injured migrant bird species or even individuals who had worked as high-end private chefs, each field member brought a unique perspective to their work. What united them all was an innate love for the outdoors and a vigorous lifestyle that complemented their dedication to their fieldwork.
The challenges faced by field crews go far beyond the laborious tasks they perform. Every day, they navigate through harsh climates, traverse mountainous terrain, and shoulder the responsibility of personal and crew safety in the most remote areas of the country. The field crews I had the pleasure of working with had to juggle multiple tasks, all while battling the elements. Their workday was filled with long hours on their feet, constant vigilance, and the determination to complete their daily objectives. Whether it was the pouring rain in one location or steep, treacherous terrain in another, they remained steadfast and resilient.
Among my various field work experiences, one stands out as particularly challenging and transformative. It involved assisting with the planting of over 10,000 climate-adapted tree species in Northern New Hampshire. The physical labor alone was demanding, but when coupled with the unique terrain, climate conditions, and time crunch to get the seedlings planted, it added an entirely new layer of difficulty. While completing field work in Massachusetts with NRS field members, this endeavor took place during the height of winter, requiring us to trek through 3-5 feet of snow to reach our designated forest plots. In Utah, the challenges were of a different nature, including navigating around river bends and encounters with wildlife, as well as bushwhacking up and down incredibly steep terrain. My time in Utah was unlike any other experience before, and being exposed to these new sets of challenges was incredibly rewarding. It pushed me beyond my limits that I didn’t think I could reach anymore, not preforming field work consistently.
As my professional journey continues to evolve and shift more towards the "hard" skills of computer programming, scientific writing, and data analysis, I remain immensely grateful for the capabilities and experiences I gained through field work. These experiences have shaped me into a more resilient and adaptable individual, both in the workplace environment and in my personal endeavors. They have taught me the importance of perseverance, the value of teamwork, and the ability to thrive in demanding and unpredictable situations. Enduring pouring rain, scaling steep terrain, and facing grueling days have fortified my determination and work ethic. The field crews I had the privilege of working with exemplify unmatched dedication and hard work, and I consider myself fortunate to have been a part of their team and to have witnessed their unwavering commitment.
Today, as I reflect on my journey, I appreciate the vital role that field work plays in scientific research and conservation efforts. It is the cornerstone that supports the development of knowledge, the validation of hypotheses, and the implementation of effective strategies. While my career path may now lead me towards different aspects of scientific inquiry, I will forever carry the lessons learned and the experiences gained during my time as a field worker. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been immersed in the world of field work, and I am excited to continue contributing to the scientific community through my expanding skill set in computer programming, scientific writing, and data analysis.