Ray Williams: Invasive Species Education and Management

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This project involved students working together alongside partner organizations like Reinstein Woods, Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Western New York PRISM and UB Sustainability to experience distinct aspects of invasive species management and education. Ray specifically focused on the Emerald Ash Borer, an invasive species that has affected the Buffalo ecosystem. Here is what Ray had to say about the experience:

What I Did:

"For my project, I was tasked on the creation of a video documentary, aimed at capturing the emerald ash borer as an invasive species. I led a team to produce a documentary that shed light on a significant societal concern about the emerald ash borer, weaving together narratives, interviews, and visuals to convey a powerful message. Not only did this project raise awareness about the issues at hand, but it also sparked conversations within our class about how to stop the invasive species from spreading. My proudest accomplishment was successfully guiding the project from an idea to completion."

What I Learned:

"Through this experience, I honed my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. My biggest takeaway from this project was realizing the power of transformative change in media. By crafting a narrative that resonated with our audience intellectually rather than a topic overview, we were able to effect change and drive a more meaningful dialogue. This experience has significantly contributed to my academic and professional goals by providing hands-on experience in project management and multimedia production. It has equipped me with valuable skills and insights that will serve me well in my future endeavors."

"I believe other students should get involved in projects like this because they offer a unique opportunity for personal growth, community engagement, and real-world impact. Beyond academic coursework, these projects allow students to apply their skills in a practical setting."