How do we attract intelligent individuals into the FWS workforce?  Mentoring, of course!  By putting ourselves out there as examples and connecting with fresh graduates or other newcomers, we can help recruit tomorrow's ethical, responsible, and innovative biologists into the FWS and/or other critical natural resource management positions. 

On September 14, five biologists from the East Lansing Field Office (Barb Hosler, Lisa Williams, Nikki Lamp, Carrie Tansy, and Jessica Hogrefe) met with a PhD Student from Michigan State University.  This student was seeking out career options as she neared the end of her program.  

Staff listened to her background and interests and then we each provided our own unique perspective on resource management and working as biologists for the FWS.  They also conveyed how the FWS is a family-friendly agency that allows for a balanced work-home lifestyle. 

This was the first time this student had a concrete idea of other opportunities for her outside of academia.  We definitely provided her with some good ideas and options to pursue for her future.