After a maelstrom of government paperwork and almost a month without an apartment I have finally managed to consummate my relationship with a pair of black dress shoes, a cozy view of the Connecticut River and a dream of a job. My name is Christopher Poulin and this summer I have the opportunity of working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

By day, I am an “Outreach Assistant” working out of the Service’s regional headquarters in South Hadley Massachusetts. By night (but mostly day) I am a journalist of youth programs sponsored by the Fish and Wildlife service and its associated partners, the External Affairs liaison for a group of 30 Conservation interns, and a professional outdoor educator looking to find his niche in the Department of the Interior. I am afraid of tight spaces, pigs, maggots, heights, oil spills, driving and sharing my writing with others. Coming out of my senior in college with a degree in wildlife conservation I am surprised to find myself working a 9-5 in an office of truly benevolent individuals who encourage personal growth with constructive feedback and the patient understanding that the evolution of a professional takes time and cultivation. Along with this is also the understanding that every keen edge must be forged in a fire.

During my first few weeks in the office I have been on two business trips, one to Philadelphia and the other to Wells Maine. I have also written several stories that will eventually be featured on the Service’s regional website. I have driven government vehicles, learned how to use an assortment of expensive media equipment, lost some less expensive government equipment, moved into a new apartment, reconnected with my community and tuned in to a world of potential. I have no doubt at this point that I am is where I want to be and this is my invitation to you, anonymous reader, to share in my experiences this summer while I figure out how to continue being where I am.