Cristina Santiestevan :: Freelance writer and photographer
Experienced writer and creative, outside-the-box thinker with a strong background in science and
conservation issues. Skilled at accurately adapting complex scientific topics to maximize public
understanding through publications, websites and museum exhibitions.
Strong belief that quality writing entertains while it educates, and that complex topics can be
communicated without using big words or run-on sentences.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Freelance Writer and Photographer :: 2008 – present
Write and provide photographs for feature articles, columns and service pieces for consumer magazines, websites and nonprofit member magazines. Also develop, research and write exhibit panels and interactive features for museums, zoos and aquariums. Specializing in topics related to wildlife conservation, climate change and other environmental issues and solutions, as well as green living, organic gardening and active, healthy lifestyles.
Website Designer / Owner :: Red Bug Media :: 2000 – present
Original designs and implementation for small websites and blogs. Consulting for user experience issues and community development relating to website design, social media and traditional media.
Exhibit Content Manager & Senior Writer :: New England Aquarium :: 2007 – 2008
Developed concepts and messaging priorities for New England Aquarium publications and exhibits.
Researched topics and wrote content for publications, exhibits and supporting materials. Led review
process to ensure scientific accuracy of all finished materials. Communicated with diverse audiences,
from schoolchildren to businesspeople. Participated in high-level strategy and editorial meetings;
influenced messaging goals and priorities for New England Aquarium publications and exhibits.
Senior Writer & Content Developer :: New England Aquarium :: 2005 – 2007
Developed and wrote content for New England Aquarium publications and exhibits. Projects included
feature articles, profiles, e-newsletters, web copy, conservation and educational materials, business
documents, and media and promotional materials. Participated in editorial and strategy meetings.
Conservation Associate :: New England Aquarium :: 2000 – 2004
Developed and wrote content for conservation programs, publications, grants and exhibits.
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Society of Environmental Journalists
National Association of Science Writers
EDUCATION
Masters :: Biology :: Boston University
Bachelors :: Biology and English :: Williams College
From backyards to wilderness areas, I write about how, why and where modern life interacts with the natural world. My assignments span a variety of issues, subjects and places: clouded leopard conservation in Thailand, climate change in American forests and mushroom foraging in the Blue Ridge Mountains. My work appears in magazines, websites and museum exhibits.
