While at the Autonomous University of Baja California, earning her bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine and zootechnics, Vanessa focused on volunteering and getting involved in wildlife and conservation projects throughout Baja California, Mexico. Vanessa now works as a veterinarian, conservationist, and wildlife expedition guide. She has been part of the Whale Shark Research and Conservation program in Baja since 2008 and a Colossal Foundation partner and conservation warrior on the front lines of the extinction crisis. Vanessa is a member of a community led wildlife monitoring group in the desert of Baja California, placing trail cams and analyzing footage focused on megafauna distribution (mountain lions, bighorn sheep, coyotes, etc.). A naturalist on expeditions, she focuses on endangered and protected species in Mexico, spreading awareness and knowledge of animals, and creating unique, first-hand experiences with them! Vanessa is fluent in English and Spanish, and is a certified freediver and SCUBA rescue diver. This fall, she will return to her hometown in Bahia de los Ángeles, Mexico, to continue working in conservation and environmental education. She has previously led Putney’s Exploration Iceland and Career Baja programs.