Being a keen observer and interested in dolphins, Sara was not only quick to observe identification marks and spotting patterns of individual dolphins, but she immediately understood the larger implications of our interaction with the natural world. I am often amazed at the intelligence and creative potential in young students, fresh to the world with their ideas. Unfortunately, the next generation of citizens enter a complex and environmentally ravaged world. It's easy to get discouraged and to feel powerless to affect our environment in a positive way. However, just as young dolphins learn and model their world by observing their parents and peers, humans need models and creative outlets to express their concerns as citizens on this planet.
Science is personal and political, affecting our daily lives and the future of our planet.
Science, education, and action go hand in hand in our lives, and I commend young people like Sara for learning, creating, and acting positively to help solve some of this planet's problems. My encounters with dolphins have made me care about what happens to dolphins everywhere. This love for dolphins has made me very interested in the ocean and science in general. Learning about science has helped me to appreciate all nature. The more I learn, the more interested I am in becoming a scientist like Dr. Herzing.