Naturalist

Naturalists are scientists and skilled communicators. They study the natural environment and enjoy sharing what they learn with other people. Naturalists are equally at case narrating multi-projector slide programs for audiences of 500 and working one-to-one with school children to identify flowers. Naturalists help people learn to live more productively on earth without destroying the environment.

Naturalists teach, but rarely in formal classrooms. They work as interpretive naturalists for the National Park Service and as tour guides at zoos. Some teach school groups in outdoor classrooms, while others develop television and video programs, write magazine and news articles, and produce mass media programs on topics such as biological diversity and endangered species.

To be a naturalist you should earn a college degree in natural resources, environmental science, or a similar program that emphasizes the scientific aspects, of relationships between humans and their environment. You must understand ecological sciences, communication theory, education principles, and resource management. Your education must include a balance between ecological and social sciences.

In high school, take math, computer science, English, literature, social science, and foreign language. Volunteer experience at parks, zoos, museums, or school camps also will help prepare you.

-- Gary Mullins, The Ohio State University