Being offered a coveted DFP position is a fantastic opportunity for career development and a chance to learn how the federal government manages conservation. At the time, program logistics still needed sorting, but USFWS was curious whether I wanted to participate, considering all fieldwork is prohibited, with program responsibilities conducted via telework. Knowing how complicated and highly competitive the hiring process is for federal agencies, I was more than willing to make any adjustments necessary to work for FWS this summer. My commitment hadn't wavered; I knew, in the very least, this would be an exciting experience, especially considering the unique implications of living in the age of a pandemic.  

I was elated after being informed the DFP program coordinators had made every effort to adjust the program quickly – I was ecstatic. The Directorate Fellowship Program offers an incredible opportunity to pave a career path with the additional benefit of earning 'hiring authority status.' This status dramatically increases the probability of being hired within the agency. 

Due to Covid-19, the plan for the summer fellowship program turned upside down and our individual conservation projects greatly altered. A week of orientation at the National Conservation Training Center (NCTC) in West Virginia was replaced with three full days of an online zoom meeting. As disappointed as we all were to have our trip to NCTC canceled, I was blown away with how well the USFWS welcomed us all to the Service. I was genuinely impressed with FWS's efforts to make sure that each of us felt supported. It was clear, this program was very important to USFWS and to the future success of the Service.  

I had one concern with working remotely - that my ability to network and develop relationships with colleagues would reduce significantly.   This trepidation proved utterly unnecessary!  It is hard to articulate how many resources are invested in this program. I was matched with a career mentor and advisor in addition to a regional team and supervisor. Alumni DFP's from previous years (now full-time employees) reached out as a resource, scheduling weekly "chats" to answer any questions I may have. It soon became apparent that, if this is, in fact, the career I want to pursue, that I could quickly achieve my goal of a job with the Fish & Wildlife Service. I just needed to work hard and perform well. I was genuinely impressed with the level of engagement and outreach that was offered at every level within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.   

Why do I want to work for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? 

There's a multitude of reasons why I am pursuing a career with the Service: I have had the fortunate opportunity to conduct field research abroad in Tanzania, studying chimpanzees' behavioral ecology and field monitoring orangutans in Borneo, rescued from illegal wildlife trade, rehabilitated and released into the wild forests. However, I have never contributed to conservation efforts in my home country and community. Additionally, I spent the last summer in Washington DC lobbying Congress to expand environmental policy on Capitol Hill. I learned that once legislation becomes partisan, progress with environmental legislation can be quite challenging. I want to focus my energy on making progress and real-world impact. USFWS offers an opportunity to be involved in making real change, protecting endangered species, and preserving our environment. 

This summer will be a fantastic chance to learn and cultivate my career path. I am grateful for the opportunity.  

Agency: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Program: US Fish & Wildlife Service - DFP

Location: Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office