Meet Lauren Eckert
Lauren Eckert graduated with a Master of Science degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Victoria, where she currently works. In her spare time, Lauren likes to hike, rock climb, and create art. She is also a certified scuba diver.
When did your love of STEM begin?
As early as I can remember, I have been fascinated with the wildlife of the world and the natural world sprouting up in my backyard. My early inclination towards learning about biodiversity and my motivation to support conservation efforts led my undergraduate degree in wildlife sciences, where I fell in love with Ecology and fieldwork.
What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?
I am lucky enough to be an interdisciplinary scientist - which means I have the opportunity to interweave my expertise in Ecology with other sciences (such as psychology, enthoecology, and other social sciences) towards accomplishing conservation goals. It is hard to say what my favorite part of my work is, but I can give you three things I adore:
1) Working with passionate, brilliiant people from all over the world who care about conservation, in particular working in partnership with Indigenous Nations on Indigenous-led research initiatives.
2) Getting the opportunity to visit and learn about unique species, ecosystems, and places.
3) I love my job and look forward every day to help the larger conservation science community take steps to build a world more in balance.
What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?
Stay curious and chase your passions! I cannot overstate the value of following your interests (even when it seems inconvenient, scary, or uncertain). When I began my undergraduate degree at 18, I didn't even know that the job I have now or the world of research I live in existed. I have been so lucky to be able to change my directions and adapt my curvy, exciting, non-linear career pathway over and over again. A whole new world opened up for me when I realized that the people (and womxn) who inspire me most did not have "linear" or "traditional" careers, but instead pursued what they loved and had a diversity of experiences as they went about accomplishing their long-term goals.