October 16, 2041

DEAR MOM,

I apologize for not keeping in touch, but the last few weeks have been stressful. It's something the university is doing.

The head of the genetic research department says it's quite simple, actually. Stuff about DNA. I still don't understand it.

Everyone in third year Environmental Studies has to do this year-long assignment.

We have to study the environment from the point-of-view of animals for a year. That's where the genetic research department comes it. They actually make us these animals.

So everyone had animals randomly assigned to them. Remember Bobby Fisher? He's a mongoose.

When I looked at the paper with our animals on it, I was disappointed.

I got salmon.

Some other girl did too. Her name's Veronica, I think. The school uses the "buddy system" with this. I'm not sure why.

It sounds dangerous, though. What if I get caught by a fishing boat, or eaten by a bear? Dr. Krumwel says they put tracking microchips in all of us. If I'm eaten, I don't know how that will help.

I guess that's why I had to sign a waiver.

Goodbye, Mom! I'll write you again in a year!

LOVE,

ALEX

November 4, 2042

DEAR MRS. CONOWAY

Hello. My name is Shelia Krumwel; I'm head of Environmental Studies at Stanford University. I am sorry to inform you that your son, Alex, was found floating dead next to his partner in the Human-Animal activity, Veronica Childsay.

The university now realizes that it was a bad idea to turn children into Salmon through spawning season.

At least they died having fun.

Compensation is in the mail.

WITH REGARDS,

DR. SHELIA KRUMWEL, HEAD OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES