Sebastian Alvarez
University of North Carolina, Charlotte
Coronado National Memorial, Arizona—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I am going to be a Geoscience Technician at Coronado National Memorial in Arizona. I am originally from Chile and moved to North Carolina in 2006. I’ve lived here half my life and have loved the beautiful sights of the Appalachian Mountains to the barrier islands in North Carolina. I graduated from University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Bachelor’s in Geology, hence my love for rocks and the outdoors. With this internship I hope to learn more about the geologic sciences as well as GIS and to be able to work for the federal government or another state agency. My hobbies include watching movies, hiking, playing soccer, concerts, and dancing.
Saba Asefa
Western Washington University
Continental Divide Research Learning Center, Colorado—[Learning Center Home]
I am a Science Communication intern at Rocky Mountain National Park this summer. I am originally from Columbus, Ohio, and have had a love for geology and the outdoors since I was a child. I went to Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee for Earth and Environmental Sciences. Then I moved to Bellingham, Washington, for a Geology Master’s program at Western Washington University. My thesis project focused on gauging air pollution using leaves as biomonitors in Seattle. I recently graduated this Spring! My career goal is to be an environmental geologist and this internship is helping me achieve this goal by exposing me to how environmental geology is utilized within the National Park Service as well as broadening my knowledge of natural resources besides geological ones. Some of my hobbies include karaoke, basketball, tennis, dancing, and trivia.
Jesse Attias
University of Vermont
Valley Forge National Historical Park, Pennsylvania—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I will be working as a natural resource conservation assistant in Valley Forge National Historical Park. I’m a recent graduate of the University of Vermont with an Environmental Science degree (biology focus) alongside a minor in Philosophy. Raised in New York, with a deep appreciation and affection for all things in nature, I knew from the get-go that I would, at the very least, be working in the environmental science field as a way to repay the natural world. I would eventually like to conduct my own research with larger mammals in regard to how climate shifts alter their behavior. My internship, although having little to do with mammals, is showing me how to use various scientific tools for field work and analysis, as well as how to properly set up an observational study. My interests include hiking, kayaking, biking, playing piano, writing, and astronomy.
Alisa Cloutier
Virginia Tech
Lava Beds National Monument, California—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
DHA-RA
I’m going to be doing natural resource management work and science interpretation about bats and conservation at Lava Beds National Monument. I chose to study Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Management at Virginia Tech. My goal after graduation is to work with a land management agency doing biology or wildlife work (preferably focusing on bats). This internship allows me to get experience in monitoring wildlife, specifically bats, as well as communicating to the public about resource programs in a large remote park. My hobbies are reading, hiking, cooking, bird watching, camping, and traveling.
Maaz Fareedi
Northeastern Illinois University
Jewel Cave National Monument, South Dakota—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
This summer I will be working at Jewel Cave National Monument as a Resource Management intern. I’m from the Chicago suburb of Vernon Hills, Illinois. This fall I’ll be finishing up my B.S. in Geology from Northeastern Illinois University. Throughout my studies, I’ve been involved with depositional modelling and structural geology, which is similar to what I’ll be doing. Specifically, I’ll be mapping the local faults and strata on the surface, and relating them to what can be seen inside the caves. As a side project, I’ll also be involved with bat acoustic monitoring. My main two goals for this internship are developing and refining my skills and networking. This internship allows me to work with a senior geologist to learn more about the field and how/where I can best apply myself in the short and long term. My interests include playing video games, cooking, rockhounding, hiking, and bouldering.
Katlyn Fuentes
University of Washington
Point Reyes National Seashore, California—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I will be stationed at Point Reyes National Seashore as a Fisheries Technician intern. I was born and raised in Washington state. I am a current student at the University of Washington working on my B.S. in Aquatic & Fishery Sciences, and minoring in Anthropology. While attending university, I’ve focused my studies as much as possible on anything related to – you guessed it – fishes! Post-graduation I would like to find a career related to conservation and resource management. This internship is helping me to achieve these goals by letting me explore a future career option as a Fisheries Technician for the National Park Service, as well as providing me networking opportunities and hands-on experience in the field. My hobbies are traveling to new places, hiking, yoga, reading, and music.
Alliyah Gifford
Colorado State University, Pueblo
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I am from Pueblo, Colorado, and I just received my Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Colorado State University–Pueblo. The crazy fast changing weather makes each experience unique. I love to be outdoors exploring with my friends, and enjoy meeting new people along the way! I am very excited to have the opportunity to work as an Ecology Technician at Rocky Mountain National Park. I have not been many places so this is new to me, but I can’t wait to explore nd learn here. My career goals are to possibly work for the National Park Service and this internship has helped me gain new skills, experiences, and make connections with possible employers. I have been able to learn about what working for the National Park Service entails and I may have never been exposed to this if it were not for this internship. My interests include reading, hiking, and journaling.
Rhys Joaquin
University of Florida
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I am from a suburb of Jacksonville, Florida, called Orange Park. I am a senior studying for my B.A. in geology at the University of Florida, with a minor in soil and water science. I have made a long journey, driving 3,000 miles across the country to work as an interpretive intern at Mount Rainier National Park. This will be a unique experience because geological features found in Washington are much different from those found in Florida. My goal through this internship is to be more involved and influential in environmental policy, education, and outreach. This internship provides me a platform to work along like-minded individuals with an emphasis on program facilitation. The experience helps to identify strengths and opportunities as a prospective, future educator. Some of my hobbies are gardening, hiking, cooking, reading, spending time with friends and family, traveling, and exploring unfamiliar places.
Aliya Khan
University of British Columbia
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I am originally from Washington, DC and I’m a student at the University of British Columbia majoring in Natural Resource Conservation with an emphasis on science and management. This summer in Shenandoah National Park, I will be working on a botany crew on a sub-project monitoring rare plants in the Big Meadows wetlands. Following my graduation, I would like to further explore watershed ecology, wildlife biology and ecology, landscape ecology and botany. My vision for meaningful work involves working in the environmental science sector doing global research, internationally cooperative research and habitat restoration. My hobbies are hiking, reading, going on walks, and knitting.
Stephanie Rosas
University of California, Santa Cruz
Capulin Volcano National Monument, New Mexico—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
DHA-RA
I will be the Biology Technician intern at Capulin Volcano National Monument in New Mexico. I graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz, with a degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. I will be working with a hummingbird researcher to gather data on hummingbird migration and pollination, and how that is being affected by climate change. I would like to be a biologist with the National Park Service, participating in some type of active research. Ideally I will be a part of the advancement of science in some way, to improve the health of ecosystems and mitigate the effects of climate change and land use practices. This internship will give me the opportunity to learn many skills related to land management and maintenance, as well as experience doing research and biological monitoring of hummingbirds. My interests include birding, backpacking, reading, kayaking, and spending time with friends and family.
Thomas Pham
University of Washington
South Florida/Caribbean Inventory and Monitoring Network, Florida—[Network Home]
DHA-RA
I will be working as an assistant avian biologist for the South Florida/Caribbean Inventory and Monitoring Network. I graduated from the University of Washington with a B.S. in Biology, with a focus in ecology, evolution, and conservation. This past year, I have gone back to school at the Portland Community College, to complete my GIS certificate. My career goal is to work for an organization that does meaningful natural resource management and hopefully be able to use GIS to solve problems. This internship is helping me achieve these goals by giving me experience working in a federal agency. It is also providing me an opportunity to network with park employees and gain insight to the inner workings of the NPS. My hobbies include hiking, photography, and cooking.
Nina Trusso
University of San Francisco
Golden Gate National Recreation Area, California—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I will be working as an aquatic ecology intern at Golden Gate National Recreation Area. I’m an aspiring scientist, passionate conservationist, and California sunshine enthusiast. With my various field jobs I’ve gotten to know some real California natives like Southern Steelhead Trout, California Red-Legged Frogs, Western Pond Turtles, and San Francisco Garter Snakes. This summer I’m excited to catch up with these old friends and meet new ones in my new home in the Marin Headlands. I want to pursue a career in watershed management and restoration of natural hydrological processes in California’s Bay Area. This internship is a great introduction to watershed restoration projects being done in this area as well as the people doing them. After this summer I will be starting my Master’s degree in Environmental Management focused on hydrology at the University of San Francisco. My favorite hobby is ultimate frisbee!
Camille Burrus
Hampton University
Zion National Park, Utah—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I received my BS in Biology at Hampton University. This summer, I am interning at Zion National Park. My main focus this summer is the conservation of the desert tortoise, and I will be developing a video to be published. My career goal is pursue a profession as a Science Illustrator. Zion has provided a great opportunity to practice illustrations of scenes from around the park. I am eager to explore the environmental world of biology and environmental sciences, and this internship has given me essential tools to pursue my future goals. My hobbies include drawing, painting, being outdoors, and participating in extracurriculars at my school such as student recruitment team, mentoring, and peer counseling.
Katherine Castrillon
Florida International University
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I graduated with a BA in Environmental Science from Florida International University. I have an interest in plant morphology, conservation and restoration, as well as wetland environments. However, my field work extends to other ecosystems found in Southern Florida such as Pine Rocklands, and Hardwood Hammocks. It will be interesting to see the differences and similarities in ecosystems, including flora and fauna, between what is experienced in South Florida versus a part of the Appalachian Mountains while interning at the Great Smoky Mountains.
Victoria Ibarra
University of Texas, Austin
Greater Yellowstone Network and Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I am a graduate student in the Energy and Earth Resources program at the University of Texas at Austin. This summer I am interning as a biology technician with the Greater Yellowstone Inventory and Monitoring Network and Yellowstone National Park. My long-term education and professional career goals would incorporate my love for the environment with the skills and knowledge I have gained in my undergraduate and graduate education. Ideally, I would like to work as a Resource Manager within the National Park Service, allowing me to continue to spend my time learning and understanding various aspects of the Earth, champion the most critical environmental causes we face, and help find solutions to the most pressing environmental challenges of our times. I enjoy hiking, climbing, backpacking, and running.
Yung Jones
University of Miami
Biscayne National Park, Florida—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
DHA-RA
I have a Master’s of Professional Science in Marine Conservation from the University of Miami. I believe that healthy coral reefs are the foundation of healthy coastal marine environments. My interest in this internship position comes from my desire to work towards preparing our coral reefs for a sustainable future. I hope to have a career in marine conservation with an emphasis on research. This internship helped me get my foot in the door with the federal government and job scene. I enjoy hiking with my dog, polymer clay models, and scuba diving.
Katherine Ko
Vanderbilt University
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
As an Ecology and Theatre double major at Vanderbilt University, I am passionate about conservation stewardship and environmental education. My main focus at Glen Canyon will be the Dragonfly Mercury Project, a large-scale, ongoing study that involves multiple NPS locations. I have loved being outdoors all my life, exploring unfamiliar places and having unpredictable adventures. I hope to have a career in outdoor education and environmental stewardship. Through this internship, I will have the opportunity to connect with people in this field and learn from their experiences, allowing me to gain both the hard and soft skills necessary for this career path. I enjoy singing, playing piano and ukulele, writing, painting, hiking, camping, photography, making jewelry, and knitting.
Jeanie Lai
Clark University, Massachusetts
Minute Man National Historical Park, Massachusetts—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
DHA-RA
I have a M.S. in Geographic Information Science for Development and Environment from Clark University and a B.S. in Environmental Science from University of Maryland, Baltimore County. I am interested in a career devoted to meaningful work serving the public and supporting natural resource conservation and cultural site preservation. This summer, I am thankful to be given this opportunity with MIS, which will allow me to learn about the U.S. National Park System and engage with the diverse mindsets and expertise of park managers, staff, interns visitors, and volunteers. In addition, I will be afforded GIS training opportunities in a federal-level work context to help me become familiar with federal GIS standards and operations. In my free time, I enjoy outdoor recreation, trying new cuisines from different cultures, road tripping, watching new Marvel movies, drawing, interior design, and going to museums.
Kennedy Mayfield-Smith
Tuskegee University
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I recently graduated from Tuskegee University with a B.S. in Animal and Poultry Science. This summer I will be working at Isle Royale National Park. As an animal science graduate, I am excited to have the opportunity to branch out and explore wildlife and environmental and conservation science while participating in a major research project. I think fieldwork is an important part of animal science that people often overlook, and I love the opportunity to do so while solidifying my love for animal science and teaching others how to care for, connect with, and conserve wildlife. One day I hope to have a career in conservation education, bridging the gap between urban youth and the sciences. I enjoy reading and cooking.
Amber Roberts
Stanford University
Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I have received my BS and MS degrees in Earth Systems from Stanford University. My project in Denali National Park and Preserve is to better understand arthropods by documenting the diversity, distribution, and phenology of pollinators across elevation gradients. This practical natural resource science-based work experience is invaluable knowledge that I could later on apply to the communities that I want to protect, serve, and give back to. This internship is a clear next step for me professionally, as I believe it can teach me how to be an effective and proactive natural resource manager. In my free time, I enjoy playing ukulele, drawing, taking photos of laughing friends, setting a volleyball, stuffing my face with food, and spending time on a beach!
Malik Robinson
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I am currently majoring in Agriculture and Environmental systems with a concentration in Sustainable Land Management at the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. I will be doing my internship in my hometown! As a GIS Specialist/Lands Planner I will be at George Washington Memorial Parkway in Washington D.C. This internship will give me an opportunity to learn much more about GIS and the trees of the parkway. My fascination of surveying land and trees began from my past internship at Yellowstone National Park where I learned how to tell the age of trees and how to plant more in selected areas where they are needed. Last summer I worked at Yellowstone National Park where I became 100% sure of what I want to do for a career: conservation and restoration. I enjoy working out and landscaping in my free time.
Dominique Sanchez
James Madison University
Congaree National Park, South Carolina—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
DHA-RA
I’m a recent graduate of James Madison University where I studied Biology and Ecology. I’m originally from Virginia and will be a Stream Assessment Specialist at Congaree National Park, South Carolina. As a Stream Assessment Specialist, I will be collecting data of the floodplain both in and around the park. I have always loved the outdoors and conducting fieldwork is one of my favorite parts of my studies in ecology. Longterm I want to work in the outdoors dealing with conservation and ecology. This internship has given me experience in organizing and implementing projects in the field, as well as learning to network and collaborate with other departments within the government. I enjoy hiking in the mountains, finding good food in new cities, visiting museums, paddling out on the water, and lifting heavy weights.
Andres Santini Laabes
University of South Florida
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Alaska—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I recently graduated from the University of South Florida with a B.S. in Environmental Biology. This summer I will be working at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway, Alaska, on a variety of projects such as air and water contamination, amphibian monitoring surveys, and fish larval sampling. I would like a career in which I can actively work towards bridging the gap between the needs of people and the environment so that both can thrive and flourish. I would like to enter the fields of conservation and landscape ecology and work towards a relationship in which the increasing human activities can be accommodated without damaging the natural environment. This internship is providing me with a firsthand look at how the sciences are being used preserve natural and cultural resources while providing a source of entertainment and wonder for the public. I enjoy camping, hiking, cycling, and kayaking.
Jaylin Solberg
University of North Dakota
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio—[Geodiversity Atlas] [Park Home]
I am now a Junior at the University of North Dakota where I study Fisheries and Wildlife Biology. When I got to the University of North Dakota, I dived into Zoology right away and tried to get experience in everything and anything related to zoology. I am currently at Cuyahoga Valley National Park and I am researching bats and white-nose syndrome and will be coming up with the best ways to effectively present my research. I am looking for a way to transfer my love for nature and conservation and my enjoyment of educating present and future generations to a position within natural resources! Longterm I am interested in working in the National Park Service. I enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, white water rafting, zip lining, archery, clay shooting, and horseback riding.
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Last updated: August 25, 2022