From restoring prairies and connecting with local communities to sharing stories about the parks, this summer’s interns have spent their season learning, exploring and making a difference across Great Parks. Along the way, they’ve also had the chance to experience the parks together through group outings, including hiking, biking and other outdoor adventures. Before they wrap up their internships and present a final project highlighting what they’ve learned, we caught up with Abby, Grace and Brianna to hear about their experiences.
ABBY
Role: Natural Resources Intern
Location: Winton Woods
School: Northern Kentucky University, Environmental Science & Geology
Currently Excited About: Learning to identify prairie plants.
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO INTERN WITH GREAT PARKS?
I wanted to become more well-rounded and learn about plants, wildlife and invasive species. Since starting here, I’ve surprised myself with how much I’ve learned. On my first day in the prairie, I wasn’t even sure what honeysuckle looked like. Now I can identify a wide range of prairie plants, and I get excited every time I learn a new one.
WHAT’S BEEN A STANDOUT MOMENT FROM YOUR INTERNSHIP SO FAR?
One of my first weeks, I joined a rough green snake survey that ran from about 9 p.m. to midnight. We found two snakes that night, got to hold them and learned about the importance of tracking their population. It was incredible to experience that with people who are so passionate about conservation.
HOW WOULD YOU SPEND YOUR PERFECT AFTERNOON AT GREAT PARKS?
I want to go kayaking so bad! I’d also love to hit the driving range. I golfed in high school and it would be cool to get back out there to slam a bucket of golf balls!
GRACE
Role: Communications intern
Location: Winton Woods
School: University of Cincinnati, Rhetoric & Professional Writing
Currently Excited About: Hosting friends and connecting people to the parks.
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO INTERN WITH GREAT PARKS?
During my last internship, I worked in a room with no windows, so having the chance to be outside every day was a huge draw! I also thought it’d be fun writing because I genuinely care about what’s happening in the parks, which made this a great fit!
WHAT’S BEEN A STANDOUT MOMENT FROM YOUR INTERNSHIP SO FAR?
It’s been really interesting learning about the marketing and public relations side of things. I’ve done a lot of writing before, but seeing the strategy and intention behind how stories are shared has given me a whole new perspective you don’t get from the outside.
HOW WOULD YOU SPEND YOUR PERFECT AFTERNOON AT GREAT PARKS?
Probably riding a bike through the parks. I haven’t had a bike in a while, but now that the weather’s been nice, spending an afternoon riding sounds pretty great right now.
BRIANNA
Role: Education Intern
Location: Nature Center at the Summit
School: University of Cincinnati, Environmental Studies & History
Currently Excited About: Teaching younger generations about wildlife and ecosystems.
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO INTERN WITH GREAT PARKS?
I wanted to spend my summer outdoors, connect with the community and work with animals. I’m not the kind of person who enjoys sitting behind a desk all day. I love teaching people about wildlife and helping them better understand the animals that share our parks.
WHAT’S BEEN A STANDOUT MOMENT FROM YOUR INTERNSHIP SO FAR?
One highlight was attending a local art show where I led a rabbit-themed craft activity and introduced visitors to Rico Thomas, one of our snakes. It was fun helping people move past their fears and learn more about him. I also liked sitting in on a Roselawn Community Council meeting and hearing firsthand what matters most to local residents.
HOW WOULD YOU SPEND YOUR PERFECT AFTERNOON AT GREAT PARKS?
I’d love to spend it either biking or kayaking. If those weren’t options, you’d probably find me in a creek looking for microorganisms.
As their internships come to a close, each intern will have the opportunity to present a project showcasing what they’ve learned during their time with Great Parks. While their experiences have taken them in different directions, from conservation work and community engagement to storytelling and communications, they’ve shared a summer of learning, exploration and connection to the parks and the people who care for them.
Thinking about spending a summer with Great Parks? Visit our Job Opportunities page to learn more about internships. Internships are typically posted each spring.