Lansing USD 469 students recently had the opportunity to learn from one of their own as Peyton Faulk, a Lansing High School graduate, returned to share her journey to becoming a marine biologist with 7th and 8th grade students interested in marine science.
Faulk explained that her passion for marine biology began early with a strong interest in life science and was solidified after participating in a summer class at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab while she was still in high school. That experience helped shape her future path and confirmed her desire to pursue a career in marine science.
After graduating from Lansing, Faulk attended Texas A&M University, where she earned an undergraduate degree in Ecology and Conservation Biology, followed by a graduate degree in Marine Biology. During her visit, she shared photos and stories from her work in the field, including experiences with invasive species, endangered birds, and sea turtle nest protection.
Faulk emphasized the importance of hands-on learning and talked about volunteering with the Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research on Galveston Island, where she gained valuable real-world experience while still a student. She also discussed her current role as a Water Quality and Pollution Specialist with Suncoast Waterkeeper, walking students through how water pollution is tested, monitored, and addressed.
The presentation clearly resonated with students. One student, Hobsen Greene, asked, “How do I sign up?” while Abigail Clanin summed up the experience by saying, “It was the best 30 minutes of my life.”
Faulk’s visit offered students an inspiring look at how curiosity, dedication, and early opportunities can lead to meaningful and impactful careers and showed them that big dreams can start right here in Lansing.
