Educators

Meet the Young Naturalist Team!

Outgoing Field Coordinator:

Max Vodra

Max (he/him) is currently a Senior undergrad at ESF majoring in Conservation Biology with an Environmental Writing minor. Originally from the DC area, he is focusing both in environmental education and mycology!

Working with Young Naturalists has helped me gain experience writing for and teaching to kids; I definitely think that this experience has helped me improve my educational skills. I like doing YN programs because it feels like it has a tangible impact on the community and helps me stay connected to the Syracuse community past ESF.

Incoming Field Coordinator:

Julia Payment

Hi all! My name is Julia, I am a second conservation biology student at ESF with a minor in water resources. My passions lie in the natural ecology in the greater Syracuse area, and I am thrilled to be able to support the community through educational outreach. I’m super excited to be working with you as YN’s field coordinator this year- please let me know if you have any questions or ideas for any upcoming events!

Incoming Social Media, Marketing, and Communications Intern:

Jillian Scocca

Hi, my name is Jillian (she/her) and I am a soon-to-be senior majoring in Environmental Education and Interpretation. I am from Long Island, NY, and a fun fact about me is that I was SUNY ESF's Earth Week Graphic Designer this year!

Young Naturalist Teaching Team:

Ferran Amaral

Ferran Amaral (he/him) is currently a sophomore majoring in Chemistry with a minor in Environmental Health. Apart from that he has a passion for education and loves to work with kids and teach them about their environment. Originally from the Chicago area, Ferran has worked at an ecology centered camp for the past three summers and has developed his abilities.

“Being a part of the Young Naturalists Leadership Team is very special to me because it combines two of my biggest interests, environmental education and working with kids. I initially joined the club SEEC at ESF and through them I was exposed to YNLT. I also really enjoy being able to work with my friends who share my passions.”

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