Name: Laura Monson
Hometown: Waterloo, IA
Major and Graduation Date: Environmental Science; Minor in Sustainability, May 2022
Favorite ISU class: There are so many! I really encourage you to look at the full list of classes when making your schedule! Some of my favorites were Oceanography with Dr. Wanamaker (ENV S 108), Environmental Geography with Dr. Burras (ENSCI 250), World Food Issues with Dr. Andrews (ENV S 342), Environmentalism in Music with Dr. Stewart (NREM 305), Surficial Processes Dr.Iverson (ENSCI 479)
Job Title & Company/Organization: County Education Coordinator for East and West Pottawattamie Soil and Water Conservation District
Major Job/Position Responsibilities: As a County Education Coordinator I lead an education and outreach program based on the conservation of our soil, water, and agricultural systems. Most days I am in classrooms at local schools teaching students, from Pre-K to 12th, about conservation and the environment.
Beyond that I also lead after school programs and clubs, field days, host booths and stations at local county fairs, STEM Fairs, and large community events. I also coordinate and lead adult education and outreach events, most recently, we had a Women Landowner meeting at the ISU Armstrong Research Farm in Lewis, IA. If you are interested, I am happy to discuss this unique program and position with anyone that is interested in a career in environmental education.
What you like most about your job/position? My job gives me the opportunity to do what I am passionate about every day, teaching people about conservation and the environment. I truly believe that education and outreach is one of the most important and effective ways of making change in the world of conservation and land stewardship. Our programs have reached over a thousand students and community members, just in the past two years that I have been in this position. My position has existed in Pottawattamie County, in some capacity, since the 1980’s, and I am honored to be the person holding this position now. Getting to know the many students, teachers, and community partners has been the highlight of my job. Seeing students’ faces light up with curiosity, and them being excited to learn about conservation inspires me every day.
What advice would you give to current students pursuing a career in Agriculture and Life Sciences? I know everyone says it, but get outside your comfort zone and explore! I went into ISU as an Open Option major and found Environmental Science through taking a class in Oceanography. Once you find what you’re passionate about, figure out how to make that a career, and run with it. Look for internships in fields you’re interested in! I found environmental education through an internship at a museum and aquarium! I wish that I would have looked for more internships, out of state, out of the country, etc. My main message is, put yourself out there! You never know what you might discover!