A big part of my mission as a wildlife biologist is to empower and prepare aspiring and entry-level wildlife professionals so that they can secure good jobs in this competitive career and carry out their life’s purpose. As a  result, I offer a variety of programs for those who want to work with me and take charge of their career. Here, you’ll learn about the successes of my students so that you can be inspired and see what is truly possible for you when you have clarity, strategy, and a competitive job application.Â
Meet Abbie:
I have a Bachelor of Science majoring in Biology and Zoology. I graduated from Evergreen State College in Olympia, WA and have since explored internships and countries abroad. I grew up in the US, always having classes (even for elementary school) outside and in the field.
Where are you currently in your wildlife career? ​
I’m getting myself out of retail work and into the field, doing what I love and working with wildlife conservation.
(UPDATE: Abbie got a seasonal job with the US Geological Survey!)
What's your dream job? ​
Spending my days out in the field doing research and working on wildlife conservation.
My dream job includes starting a company focused on wildlife conservation and the one health approach to conservation. Focusing on sharing skills and experiences with all ages and groups.
What is a hardship you have overcome in your career? ​
Knowing what field I want to go in and having so many people not understanding how important biodiversity is to our world.
What kind of impact do you want to have in your career? ​
I want to be able to inspire others to learn and experience the wonders of our natural world – as well as encourage the sharing of knowledge, skills, and experiences with one another no matter what age, degree, or expertise you hold. Wildlife conservation is such an important field, but it requires all of us to learn as we go – otherwise we won’t be able to make a difference.
"I want to be able to inspire others to learn and experience the wonders of our natural world...no matter what age, degree, or expertise you hold."
How did you know you wanted to go into this field? ​
I have always been passionate about wildlife. I first wanted to attend vet school but after some shadowing and experiences I have had since those days, I find myself more intrigued with the research prospect. I hate being stuck inside and adore being outside making a difference by providing education and research both.
What's a moment of success you've had in this career?​
I have to say, teaching some of the older kids in South Africa and seeing just what an impact we made by sharing the importance of our natural world.
What is the biggest takeaway or most important lesson you have learned so far from the Successful Wildlife Professional? ​
The biggest takeaway from this course is that it is possible to have your dream career and also find a job that is right for you without having to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree.
What was your life/career like before the Successful Wildlife Professional? What was it like after? ​
I wasn’t as motivated, and it felt like I was just on autopilot: get up, work a long day, go home, and repeat all over again five out of seven days a week.
After this class, I was more inspired to pursue my dream career and job and felt like I would actually make that dream career come true.
"After this class, I was more inspired to pursue my dream career and job and felt like I would actually make that dream career come true."
What would you say to someone who is thinking about joining the Successful Wildlife Professional, but is on the fence?
It is a sure commitment, but it is well worth every cent. This course allows you to truly find yourself and will definitely open your mind to many possibilities. It is amazing, and it definitely has results. I wasn’t sure entirely what I was doing at first, but getting a job with USGS and being able to work in my field (not retail) is well worth the fact I did this course. Stephanie is always willing to lend an ear, and her advice is worth it. She gives you the feedback you need and wants, especially for this field. It also helps you remain positive – this field is tough, and sometimes we do get stuck, but this course has a way of getting you unstuck. You meet so many people, too, and it’s amazing.
"Getting a job with USGS and being able to work in my field (not retail) is well worth the fact I did this course."
Continue to follow Abbie’s success and adventures by following her on LinkedIn.
Programs Abbie enrolled in:
If you’re ready to get results like these and go after your dream career in wildlife, then I’d love to meet you! Check out my programs page to see how can work together.Â
Stephanie Manka
Stephanie Manka, Ph.D. is a wildlife biologist with 20 years of experience in mammal ecology and conservation, education, and outreach. Read her story to find out how she went from the daughter of a jeweler to a Ph.D. in wildlife biology.
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