Ryan is a biologist, project manager, and principal consultant for an environmental/sustainability consulting firm, Environmental Resources Management (ERM). In addition to some occasional biological fieldwork (including travel to South America), he primarily conducts environmental reviews under NEPA regulations for large capital projects across North America, studying the potential impacts to the natural and human environments.

In his free time, Ryan is also a published author who has written for many outdoor organizations and brands (both print and online). He carves ornate pumpkins professionally each fall for numerous large events in Minnesota. And he loves to spend as much time outside as possible with his family, whether it’s hiking, camping, hunting, or fishing.

Favorite SFS Memory:

SFS in Kenya was a life-changing experience and dream come true. It opened my eyes to radically different environments and cultures, and the memories still guide me. Spending my birthday touring Amboseli National Park from the Land Cruiser (for class, no less) was very memorable. Camping overnight in tents in Tsavo National Park and hearing lions and hyenas just outside of camp was thrilling and terrifying. And being able to walk to the local village and across the Kenyan countryside to conduct our wildlife research is a core memory for me today.

I’d encourage every college student to consider a study abroad program like SFS. Not only for the technical skills/knowledge, but also for the experience of learning a new culture, pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, and igniting a spark of curiosity for what’s next.