"Since graduating from UVM with a B.A. in Chinese and Asian studies in 2010, I have made sure to spend as much time in China as possible. Some of the work I have done after UVM included serving as a field assistant for the San Diego Zoo, at Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve, tracking monkeys, and acting as a field guide and interpreter. In late 2012, I had the honor of receiving a Fulbright grant to implement my own self-tailored research project. I investigated how hunting and traditional culture among a Lisu ethnic village guide local stances towards, and participation in wildlife conservation efforts. After I finished the Fulbright, I continued traveling and working in that area, and played the drum-kit in a local Kunming punk/rockabilly band through which I got to travel around China and meet lots of interesting folks, performing at festivals, parties and private gigs. Through each of these experiences I was able to access places, explore different traditions, and meet and become good friends with people that I may never have without my Chinese language ability." -James Dopp '10