When alumni share their experiences during their time at UGA, current and prospective students gain valuable perspectives on what they can achieve after graduating. Current PhD student Dominique Valentine recently met with Dr. Emily Horton, a 2020 Anthropology and Integrative Conservation (ICON) PhD alumna who is now a Social Scientist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Combating Wildlife Trafficking Branch, International Affairs. In their conversation, Horton reflected on her journey at the University of Georgia and how it shaped her path to a career in international wildlife conservation. Horton chose UGA for its unique combination of Environmental Anthropology and the ICON program. Both of these aligned perfectly with her interests and still influence her current work, which involves not only generating data but actively designing financial assistance programs that fund interdisciplinary research and conservation interventions. She recalls that anthropological research often emphasized theoretical and knowledge based outputs, and she highlights the importance of taking classes that focus on applying social science insights to real-world conservation efforts. Dr. Horton in the field with International Program Specialist Jen Miller. She draws inspiration from the professors she encountered during her time at UGA. Dr. Julie Velásquez Runk expanded her understanding of feminist and decolonization methodologies, while Dr. Pete Brosius demonstrated how to integrate heart, critical thinking, and joy into cultural anthropology. Dr. Don Nelson’s emphasis on intentionality and respect in research left a lasting impression, as did Dr. Laura German’s rigor and Drs. Nate Nibbelink, Mary Freeman, and Bud Freeman’s passion for fish ecology. Each of these mentors influenced her in unique ways, sharpening her skills and shaping her perspective. Thinking back at her time at UGA, Horton recounted that her proudest accomplishments were defending her dissertation while working in Washington DC during the pandemic while serving as a Knauss Marine Policy Fellow for NOAA’s National Sea Grant Programs. She attributes this success to the unwavering support of her community- her professors, family, friends, and even small comforts like time spent under a big oak tree with her dog. Today she still finds support through forming communities that provide professional and personal support. But also through Nature, which serves as a profound source of renewal, reminding her of the bigger picture and helping to re-center her focus. She finds that she looks to people and beings who challenge her to strive toward her best self, finding strength in their creativity, perseverance, and vision. Horton believes in the power of empathy, as it is her greatest strength and cornerstone of her career. As a cultural anthropologist, listening and understanding others’ perspectives allows her to approach conservation challenges with diplomacy and collaboration. Overall, her journey from UGA to a career in global conservation exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary education, adaptability, and staying true to one’s values. Her work continues to make a tangible impact on wildlife and ecosystems worldwide, underscoring the importance of translating academic insights into actionable solutions. Throughout her career, she has embraced flexibility. She highlights the importance of staying aligned with one’s values and prioritizing personal and relational well-being. Academic pressures, though challenging, provided opportunities for growth, and she emphasizes the power of knowing oneself and staying true to what feels right. Email anthro@uga.edu if you want to be the next alumni spotlight! Join our Linkedin Alumni Group!
