To celebrate Earth Week, meet Emily Rohrbach, a junior studying Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) with a concentration in Fish and Wildlife Conservation Biology in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. This past winter break, Emily had the opportunity to partake in a short-term study abroad program located in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico. Spanning 13 days, the program was centered around ecology, culture, and environmental sustainability.

Navigating challenges in this area, such as the absence of running water for three days, Emily gained insights into the diverse living conditions across the globe and a new appreciation for the privileges in her own life.

The program allowed Emily a creative outlet to work on her journaling and filmmaking skills. This passion aligns with her future career goal, where she aims to continue documenting her experiences and broadcasting to wide audiences.

Emily’s passion for the planet traces back to her childhood, where she found inspiration in public figures like Steve Irwin and his family for their dedication to conservation, environmental advocacy, and animal welfare. She has even marked Earth Day as her favorite day of the year.

Beyond academics, Emily is actively involved in wildlife conservation efforts and participates in the organization Wildlife Conservation. She is also involved in the Recreational Volleyball Club, serving as the social chair and enjoys photography and filming.

Emily is involved in research at the University of Illinois with the Human-Wildlife Interactions lab, where she is working as a field technician studying endangered bats under the supervision of NRES professor Joy O’Keefe. This summer she will be facilitating research in the northern plains of Missouri, as the University of Illinois is partnering with the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Post-graduation, her ambitions are related to educating individuals about conservation and wildlife, potentially within the context of non-profit organizations. Her dream employers include Animal Planet and National Geographic, where she envisions a role that will allow her to travel and constantly learn about various ecosystems and animal habitats.

Although currently an undergraduate student, Emily recognizes the value of higher education in her future. Eventually, one of her goals is to obtain a graduate degree, driven by her desire for knowledge and commitment to the environment. “Why would I stop learning? I love to learn,” she says.