Introduction

Hello. My name is Chris. I am 29 years old. I hail from Dunedin originally but am currently living, with my (extremely pregnant) partner, in Munich, Germany. I work as a tour guide. As well as this I am (slowly) working towards a Bachelor in Science with a major in Ecology.

I have always loved the natural world, and feel blessed to have grown up surrounded by the South Islands national parks. I have studied before (although I use the word "study" loosely), undertaking a certificate in outdoor recreation at Aoraki Polytechnic in Timaru. Among other jobs, I have worked as a guide on the Milford track and as a DOC ranger - initaially maintaining the tracks, huts and bridges in the back country of South-Westland and later taming the wild pines in the back country around Queenstown. As well as this I have spent around 5 years working and travelling overseas, exploring over 40 countries in South and Central America, North Africa, Asia and much of Europe. 

One thing I have become convinced of in my life is how important unspoiled landscapes and eco-systems are to the health of the planet and humanity as a whole. With a wee one on the way (and at the risk of sounding cliche), I want future generations to have the same opportunities I have had to experience our planet at its most beautiful, raw and undisturbed. That's why I want to dedicate my life to conservation, but at a more intellectual level than what I have done previously. Although I love the physical part of conservation - going bush and getting my hands dirty - I feel I could make a bigger impact by furthering my knowledge in the subject. I have a particular interest in sustainable resource management, finding a balance between taking what we need while maintaining the health of the natural environment we depend on. Something which different cultures achieve to varying success. 

A very important part of conservation is convincing the global community of it's importance. This is why I believe this paper, Communication in the Sciences, is so important. I love to write, and feel I have a talent for it, so I want to put this talent to good use.

I am looking forward to working with other students, but hope the time difference doesn't complicate matters. Also I am a little apprehensive of the time management involved and hope that I am able to juggle a newborn baby (not literally!), my job and this paper to get the most out of it as possible. I think this will be my biggest struggle over the next 10 weeks or so, but am looking forward to the challenge.