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Let's meet Natalie:

�������� junior Honors College student Natalie Holland is from the small town of Johnstown, P.A., majoring in environmental studies and minoring in journalism.  She did not intend to apply to the Honors College at first. However, after receiving a letter from �������� outlining the benefits of the college, she decided to apply. Her decision has led to both academic and social success. Natalie has had an impactful journey at the university and in the Honors College the past three years, saying, “It’s been a really good experience so far...” She also added that during her time in the Honors College, she has “definitely met a lot of people that I probably, you know, otherwise just wouldn't have met. I think it's been a really good way to connect with people.” Not only is she an Honors College student, but also a member of the �������� Marching Band, where she plays trumpet. While she loves it, she has a greater love. Natalie has been obsessed with nature and animals from a very young age. When asked about this passion, she lamented about observations in her own backyard growing up, explaining, “It was just so amazing to see. Just to watch the animals and just how they exist. So that's kind of why I picked this major, because I love the planet and I want other people to feel the same love for it that I do.” Her love of animals and nature led her to a great opportunity and an interesting summer.

The experience of a lifetime:

Natalie was reading through the website when she discovered information about internship opportunities. Despite having had no prior zoological experience on her resume, Natalie applied for and was accepted into the conservation program at the as a student intern. For Natalie, this was a dream come true! Her experiences included shadowing the zookeepers, helping with the day-to-day habitat maintenance, and working closely with animals, such as elephants. She excitedly described an enrichment toy she created with a fellow intern out of a fire hose for the elephants, her favorite zoo animal. When asked to reflect on her internship, she says that despite the long commute, “It was probably the most amazing experience of my life, the coolest thing I think I've ever done.” Natalie sees this internship as having a lasting impact. Stating that it helped her figure out her future goals and showed her what it takes to be in that line of work. She praised, “It was really inspiring to see the keepers work as hard as they could every single day.” This internship simply reaffirmed Natalie’s passion for animals, the environment, and her chosen career path.

The future:

After graduation, Natalie hopes to combine her major in environmental studies with her journalism minor. Ideally, she sees herself working for somewhere like National Geographic as a wildlife photographer, or “Anything that gets me up close with animals is fine with me!” Whether it is teaching others about animals or simply sharing her love for them, Natalie will continue doing what she loves and making an impact. The future looks bright for Honors College student Natalie Holland, as she continues to do great things for wildlife and this beautiful planet we call home.