The Overview
This externship is presented in partnership between the National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy, two of the world’s most respected environmental organizations.
Whether you live near an ocean or far away, water is a vital resource. Globally, marine habitats are facing mounting threats that stand to affect every person on the planet. Understanding the interconnectedness of natural systems, locally and globally, is critical to a sustainable future.
Overfishing, offshore drilling, ocean acidification, or the loss of coral reefs may feel distant, but in this externship, participants will translate marine conservation into a local context. Learn how to make marine issues relevant to any community and identify solutions. Students will explore marine conservation careers, interact with experts and scientists from the National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy, conduct research, and connect with local conservation organizations.
What you will learn during the Externship
- Marine Conservation: Explore resources and case studies on current marine conservation issues and solutions, such as marine protected areas.
- Investigative Research: Learn and apply primary and secondary research methods to investigate conservation initiatives and identify regional and local issues relevant to marine conservation.
- Public Speaking: Speak to local leaders, conservationists, and community members to understand connections to marine conservation.
- Problem-Solving: Identify gaps in local conservation efforts relevant to marine conservation and propose solutions to issues you may uncover.
- Story-telling: Gain written, verbal, and visual storytelling skills to communicate marine issues and how your community can help.
What You Will Gain
- Hands-On Experience and a Comprehensive Skill Set: From conducting primary and secondary research to effective communication, you'll acquire a skill set that is highly valued across various industries.
- A Competitive Edge: The insights and experiences you gain from this externship will provide you with a competitive edge in your job search, helping you stand out to recruiters in conservation, communication research, and more.
- Professional Network: You will connect with industry experts and peers to broaden your professional circle.
- A Certificate of Completion: Showcase your newly acquired skills and dedication to professional development with a certificate that can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume.
Why This Is Perfect for You
- Candidates should be between the ages of 18-25 and have an interest in learning about introductory approaches to conservation and careers in conservation.
- We strongly encourage individuals from locations that are directly impacted by challenges to marine habitats to apply.
- No prior work experience or coursework in conservation or environmental topics is required.