Earthsaver of the Month
After serving with SCA in high school, Christopher Fernández decided to major in Environmental and Conservation Biology. Now, as a college junior, Christopher continues to come out to support SCA service events, and mentors underclassmen interested in wildlife and conservation.
Why do you serve the planet?
I serve the planet because it is a responsibility I have been endowed with. Ultimately we are all responsible for being stewards of our planet — there is no Planet-B! I serve because I believe that the protection of nature and preservation of life go hand-in-hand, from the smallest organism to the entirety of our biosphere. I serve because I have hope in humanity’s role in safeguarding the blessings of nature for generations to come!
What’s your favorite green space?
Here in Northern Virginia I have many fond memories at Burke Lake State Park, running cross-country and spending free time there with friends. But after my summer internship in New York, I’ve got to say I really enjoyed walking through parts of Morton and Wertheim National Wildlife Refuges on Long Island. And Central Park was also really fun! How can I pick just one?
Tell us about one of your favorite service experiences.
My most amazing service experience was participating in SCA’s Career Discovery Internship Program. I served at the Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex, where I met people from all over the nation and made so many wonderful friends. After this great experience, I decided to become an Alumni Ambassador and have been mentoring other students interested in wildlife and conservation at my university.
What’s your next earthsaving goal?
My short-term goal is to intern with different conservation organizations and continue gaining experience in field biology, research, and data management. My long-term goal is to work as a conservation biologist with an agency or institution researching important scientific questions, conducting conservation work, and teaching students about how they can be environmental stewards in their own communities.
