What is Interpretation?

Have you ever been to another country where you didn’t know the language? Did you wish that you had an interpreter to translate what was being said around you? Well, there are also interpreters of natural resources. They know a little bit about everything so they answer questions about a variety of environmental topics. However, the audience and the way in which you deliver your knowledge can be vastly different, thus why there are so many different career titles and employment opportunities. Here are examples of just some of the careers and job titles in Interpretation:

• Naturalist
• Environmental Educator
• Park Ranger
• Conservation Law Enforcement Officer
• Game Warden
• Policy Analyst
• Public Relations
• Lawyer

Which Major and Option should you choose?

To obtain a career in one of these fields we recommend pursuing a degree in

Animal Ecology

Forestry

Did this narrow your decision for you? Probably not. While you can reach any of these careers through either of our majors, what it’ll come down to is what knowledge you’re most interested in having. Do you want a background more focused on wildlife or the environment?

To further complicate your decision, for each of our majors you also have to select a specialization, known as an Option. Unfortunately (or fortunately?) you also have your pick of options here!

Tips for pursuing these careers:

• Figure out your audience!
  Do you enjoy presenting to the general public? Kids? Adults? Or do you prefer working at an administrative level, which is more formal.
• Hone your creative skills! 
  A lot of interpretation isn't done face-to-face, but through reports and signage. It is crucial to be able to write effectively, and know some design principles as well.
• Know your stuff! 
  Interpreters get asked a lot of questions. Animal and plant identification is huge, but so is knowledge of policy when people ask whether or not something is allowed.
• Learn some animal care techniques!
  Many interpreters in education work with live animals in some respect. Knowing how to handle animals while you're presenting can be a valuable skill.

Looking for something to complement your major?