Amanda Hardaswick
BS, Conservation Law Enforcement and Wildlife Conservation, Class of 2007
Federal Wildlife Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Baring, ME

What is your current job title and your main responsibilities?
I am a Federal Wildlife Officer working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  On a daily basis I work to ensure our natural resources are protected and that everyone remains safe while enjoying the outdoors.

What was your path to getting the job you have now?
While in high school, I worked summers for the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection as a Seasonal Park Aide working at three state parks. I kept that summer job while at Unity, until my Junior year when I was an intern with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the Student Career Experience Program. This program has since changed names and is now the Pathways Program.

What do you love about the job?
I love that I get to work outdoors with people who have the same interests as I do.  I help protect the resources so everyone can continue to enjoy them for many years to come.

What made you want to come to Unity? Were those expectations realized by the time you graduated?
When I was in high school I learned about Unity College. Once I visited, I knew that was where I wanted to go. Small classes, hands-on learning, and a great location were some of the reasons. Throughout my college career, this proved true. The professors helped along the way and I had my dream job prior to graduation.

How would you describe your transition from college to the working world, and what advice would you give fellow or future Unity alums?
Unity prepares you for the working world. I would advise anyone who knows what they want to do, to work towards it all the time.  Build your resume and excel and continue learning.

Monday, January 11, 2016