Join the Student Conservation Association!

Do you enjoy spending time outdoors? What would you do to make certain that your experiences in nature remain unblemished for you and future generations? As an Environmental Studies Major, I have a deep sense of intimacy and passion with the natural world which is why I joined the Student Conservation Association (SCA).

Through the SCA I had the opportunity to partner up with conservation agencies all across the country to help them preserve, protect, conserve and educate the public about their natural, cultural, and historic resources. Some of these agencies were through the Department of the Interior which manages the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs to name a few. Others were through the Department of Agriculture which manages the National Forest Service. 

What's great about being an SCA Intern is that you don't need to have a background in Environmental Studies to join. All you need is dedication and an interest in conservation. In order to become a member simply go to thesca.org and create a member profile describing your education, experiences, skills and interests. From there, the SCA site will make recommendations on what sites might be a perfect match for you. As soon as you find a position you are interested simply click on "consider me" and your application will be pooled into the job filter. Shortly thereafter you may get an email from the SCA on where it has sent your application. Your best chances of following up on an offer is to immediately contact the places that your application has been sent.  

The SCA is perfect for high school graduates, college students, and recent graduates in pursuit of getting involved with the environment. Most sites provide housing, stipends, and days off where you can explore your new surroundings and make your stay at your site an adventure of a lifetime. It is also a great opportunity to make new friends with common interests. When I joined the SCA the first place I interned was at Tonto National Monument out in Roosevelt, Arizona. It was one of the best things I did for myself because it not only gave me experience in working for a government agency, but it also gave me an idea of which path I may want to pursue as a graduate student. Days off were also amazing filled with epic wonder. I also formed close friendships with the other interns who I lived with and would not doubt if we stayed in close contact for the rest of our lives. 

So,  if you are looking for a fun, fulfilling, and adventurous way to get involved with environmental conservation, then join the student conservation association. Get your green on!

Photo credit: www.thesca.org