For example, this past April I spent Earth Day with Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) and their partner Groundwork in Elizabeth. Great Swamp NWR has a project known as Urban Wildlife Refuge Partnership, the project focuses on connecting urban communities to wildlife through youth empowerment, microforms, and restoration projects. The event was for the community to educate and celebrate our beautiful mother earth which included food, games, and plants. Located at one of their restoration projects, Trotter’s Creek, a tributary of Elizabeth River within Phil Rizzuto Park.

I helped with the FWS booth for Great Swamp in their archery booth as seen in the photo, which was a huge hit. It was amazing speaking with people and learning about all the amazing work being done in this urban city. The event included planting a native trees/ plant at Trotter’s creek, I choose this very cute tulip tree. I named her tullie and in no way being bias, but I think she was the cutest of them all. An experience I surely won’t forget, and I hope to revisit tullie in the future.

This is but just one opportunity I have had in my fellowship so far but this one spoke out to me the most because I was able to witness the difference that is being done in a city near me. As well as meeting such amazing people. As well as seeing all of the young students entering/ interested in this field and seeing how excited they are to begin.

I am excited to see what else the next few weeks bring, I have so many opportunities that are popping up and I am so thankful to be able to experience them.