Ever wondered how to explain your conservation career to your kids? It’s been an evolving journey for me, especially with my two children – a son (10) and a daughter (4). 👦 👧
When my son started school a few year ago, I used to say him I am an ecologist or zoologist. Initially it worked. My son proudly boasted to his friends about his ‘dad studying big animals. Who does not like this job? 👌
But then it sounded like an adjective, rather than an actual occupation. It lacked some elements of seriousness. So, I introduced myself as a scientist, pretending that I know something about the science 👨🔬. Seemingly it worked again.
Later, when I got a job as lecturer in conservation science, I was quite relieved as I could easily say him my job is to teach about animals at the university.
This challenge isn’t unique. Convincing everyone, including your loved ones, that conservation work is a ‘real job’ with a meaningful purpose is a constant effort.
A few years back, I saw this on the header of the website of the American Society of Mammalogists:
Mam·mal·o·gy / a branch of zoology dealing with mammals
Mam·mal·o·gist / a person with the best job in the world!
Well, I believe many people working in conservation have that best job in the world. 😉