A Journey of Passion: Wildlife Conservation and Education

In an increasingly urbanized world, the pursuit of wildlife conservation emerges as a vital field, emphasizing the need for educated advocates to protect our planet's fragile ecosystems. Cori Sharp's story encapsulates this spirit, showcasing how personal passion can transform into impactful action through education.

Raised in diverse environments from Alaska to Hawaii, Sharp's childhood was marked by a deep fascination with nature, ultimately guiding her to pursue degrees in anthropology and biological sciences at Arizona State University (ASU). Her academic journey highlights the unique partnership between Starbucks and ASU, allowing employees to earn degrees through a flexible online platform. "The support, quality, and flexibility ASU offered exceeded my expectations," Sharp noted, emphasizing how this opportunity not only alleviated financial stress but allowed her to fully immerse in her studies.

Sharp's experience at ASU wasn't limited to online classes; she enriched her education through a study abroad program to Argentina and Antarctica, which broadened her horizons and cemented her commitment to wildlife conservation. "It was incredible being able to see Antarctica, and I am happy to say I have now officially been to all continents," she recalled, reflecting on how these experiences reinforced her dedication to environmental preservation.

Sharp's defining moment in selecting her dual majors occurred in high school during a biology class that sparked her interest in ecosystems and species interactions. She recognized the necessity of understanding human dynamics in conservation efforts, leading to her choice of anthropology as a complementary study. "Successful conservation requires insight into human behaviors that impact the natural world," she stated, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of her work.

Her interactions with professors, particularly Jarod Raithel, profoundly influenced her perspective on wildlife careers. Raithel's diverse experiences with various species taught Sharp the importance of flexibility in her future endeavors, igniting excitement about the myriad directions her career could take. This realization underscores the diverse pathways available within wildlife biology, a field characterized by constant evolution and adaptation.

One of the most transformative courses for Sharp was Environmental Ethics, where she grappled with complex moral questions surrounding food production and animal treatment. This course not only heightened her awareness but also instilled a sense of responsibility to advocate for ethical practices in both conservation and everyday living. "I actively try to better the world based on the ethics that I learned about," she expressed, demonstrating her commitment to applying academic lessons to real-world challenges.

Looking ahead, Sharp has accepted a PhD fellowship at Michigan State University, where she plans to delve into wildlife conservation research. "I am incredibly excited about this next step!" she exclaimed, highlighting her determination to make a significant impact on the field. With aspirations to return to Seattle for her postdoc, Sharp's journey exemplifies how education and personal passion can unite to foster change in wildlife conservation.

As we reflect on Cori Sharp's inspiring journey, we are left to consider: how can we support wildlife conservation in our own communities? What steps will you take to advocate for the planet's precious species?

Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts or stories about wildlife conservation! Your perspective could inspire others to take action.

• Arizona State University
• education
• Wildlife Conservation