I have always been interested in nature. My first college degree was in wildlife biology, but I never had a job in the field. Instead, I got a graphic design degree and became a designer for a manufacturing company.

But three years ago, I drove past the new Laboratory of Ornithology building and was awed by how beautiful it is. I found out more about what the Lab does, and volunteered as a graphic design intern for six months. I worked very hard to design beautiful publications so that they would hire me, which they did.

Since I have been here, my most rewarding assignments are laying out booklets, flash cards, posters and other publications to teach people about birds and science. I love working with educators to help children and adults notice, enjoy, and understand birds. When I have a good design that others think helps get the point across, I am always excited.

While I have been at the Lab, I have met many students studying to be scientists and naturalists. They get to do interesting projects in the lab and out in the field, such as studying crow families, jay territories, migrating birds, endangered species, or diseases in birds. All the students work hard, but they love learning about birds. If you love birds too, think about working hard and becoming a scientist!