My name is Max and I am a sophomore at Franklin & Marshall College pursuing a degree in Government and Environmental Studies with a minor in Arabic. I grew up in different neighborhoods in Manhattan and Queens, providing plenty of opportunities to explore urban environmental problems such as food insecurity, lasting health effects of air and water pollution or waste management. Waste management was particularly important to me as a high school student because I could see how poorly managed waste systems can affect the quality of beloved and important waterways, such as the Hudson River, when I was in an afterschool sailing program: Hudson River Community Sailing. This program, which also taught marine and environmental sciences through the lens of sailing, was an intrepid form of immersion into nature for city kids such as myself. We must protect the environment because it is humanity's support system in economic, cultural and social senses. After I graduate I plan to continue my education, be it international affairs, public policy or environmental management, I do not know yet. Nonetheless, I want to work with a grassroots or intergovernmental organization that protects and encourages biodiversity, sustainability and environmental ethics. Speaking of an organization with a unique approach to environmental advocacy, check out this Conservation International ad with Harrison Ford: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rM6txLtoaoc