Northview Senior Robert Barnes has been accepted into Montana State University. He is hoping to pursue a career in Fish and Wildlife, but more specifically as a conservation officer or game warden.
Barnes seems to fit right in. Nature and wildlife have been a part of his life from a young age. Spending time up north and fishing is where his love for nature began.
“I have grown up a lot outdoors, so I’ve interacted with nature and animals a lot and it seems like an important resource that we don’t take enough care of,” Barnes said.
Moving out of state is a drastic change, but supportive family and friends make the move a lot easier.
“Overall my family is pretty supportive. Nobody says what I want to do is stupid,” Barnes said.
Attending a large university such as Montana State University offers many exciting opportunities for an incoming freshman. Montana State University has good fish and wildlife programs with close ties to the ranger programs at the national parks around the area.
“The most exciting thing is the new environment and new set of challenges,” Barnes said.
Although there is much to look forward to as Barnes explores his career in Fish and Wildlife, it will take him out of his native environment here at home.
“The distance from home will be a challenge but also the fact that I’ll be out there on my own, adapting and finding new friends will also be challenging,” Barnes said.
Yet Barnes feels that he’s prepared for what’s next. Barnes growing up and watching the natural environment deteriorate from pollution and fossil fuels made him want to make a difference.
“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do as a freshman. As I’ve gone through high school I’ve learned things and taken different classes, I think it’s molded my experience towards wanting to do this.” Barnes said.