Michael Mojarro, Office of Public Health

Courtesy of Michael Mojarro

What is your job title and duties this summer?

Job title: Public Health Intern

Duties: I have an array of duties that seems to be everchanging. I completed a written article piece that was published in the Spring 2021 edition of Ranger Magazine. I have also created the Park Health Ambassador program, which seeks to help others get closer to nature in six easy steps. Additionally, I have been a committee member for the Power of Parks for Health Roundtables . These roundtables work as a discussion to address inequities in parks.

How did you get involved with your internship program?

The Greening Youth Foundation provided me with the opportunity to connect with the outdoors. They are an incredible foundation that helps the youth become exposed to land conservation and make a difference in their communities.

What inspired you to do an internship at the National Park Service?

As a child I was always extremely active outdoors. I loved going on hikes, climbing rocks and trees, or dipping my toes in rivers or oceans. I graduated from DePaul University with an undergraduate degree in health sciences. Currently I am pursing a Master of Health Administration from the University of La Verne. My passion for the outdoors and health are being fulfilled via the outstanding work done by the National Park Service.

What is the most rewarding part of the work you are doing?

The most rewarding part of the work I am doing is knowing that I am helping to break down barriers and make parks for inclusive for all. It is rewarding knowing that I am part of a bigger picture of NPS to preserve the beauty of the national resources the land has to offer.

Tell us something unique and special about your site.

The position I currently hold is remote. I work from home in Los Angeles, California. In my free time I have been to Joshua Tree National Park, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, and Cabrillo National Monument.

How has your cultural background influenced your passion for conservation?

Being of Mexican heritage, I have been taught that the land is a gift. It is there to build a positive relationship with. We are born, live, work, and understand the world through the natural resources the world has to offer. It is not just a passion, but a duty to protect and conserve the health of the land for everyone to enjoy.

My family has always been involved with conservation of justice, whether it be with land or human politics, including my cousin mark! Lopez and grandmother Juana Gutierrez who are both well known for their environmental and community activism.

What advice do you have for youth who are interested in getting involved in stewardship and into the conservation field?

You have the opportunity to choose what our natural world will come to be. Be the gateway to conserve the beauty it holds before it’s gone.