College of Science

Department of Applied Environmental Science

ENSTU Alumna Works Towards Environmental Education Access for All 

Cecelia smiling and holding an owl; the owl is perched on its handler's arm. The handler is dressed in his uniform.

 

Cecilia “Cece” Gutierrez, an Environmental Studies alumna, works as the Community Bird School & Nature Program Coordinator for the Ventana Wildlife Society. 

We recently touched base with Cecilia to learn more about her work and how her experiences at CSUMB helped shape her career pathway. Check out her interview below! 

What year did you graduate from CSU Monterey Bay?

2019

What was your major?

Environmental Studies (ENSTU) 

Did you obtain any additional degrees and/or certifications after receiving your bachelor's degree at CSUMB? If so, please list them, along with where you received them from. 

Yes. I received my UC California Naturalist Certification from the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History in 2023. 

What is your current position? Please provide background information on your job title, duties, and workplace.

Currently working with Ventana Wildlife Society (VWS), a nonprofit conserving native wildlife and their habitats through science, education and collaboration. I’ve been a part of the education team, on and off, since my undergrad in 2018. At present, I am the Community Bird School & Nature Program Coordinator. We break down barriers for underserved communities and provide free transportation and nature programs for families and youth in Monterey County. 

Did your experience as a science student contribute to your current career pathway? If so, please explain.

Yes, 100%. During my third year, I took an Introduction to Environmental Science course and that same semester I switched majors to ENSTU. I’ve always known I wanted to do something in education and switching to that route really opened my eyes to the different possibilities of outdoor education. 

What was your favorite course in the undergraduate program and why?

Plant Communities of California (ENVS 342). This was a course only offered in the Spring semester and always heard from other peers, this was the class I needed to take. I learned so much from this class and the field trips we took; my passion for the outdoors grew even more.

Are there any specific skills that you gained while at CSUMB that have helped contribute to your current success?

EOP was a huge part of my college experience and I will always be so thankful for that program getting me through the first few years with monthly check-ins and career success workshops. 

Data collection and life skills from LSAMP Costa Rica Summer Expedition in 2017 definitely contributed to my passion for the outdoors. I still cannot believe I went on that trip. My life completely changed. 

Scuba diving certification in 2017 helped me get over my fear of the ocean/unknown. I grew a lot from that experience and pushed myself beyond belief. 

Overall, the independence I learned from CSUMB, living on my own and navigating through college, has shaped me into the woman I am today! 

Congratulations, Cece! We are otterly proud of you!