This program invites interns to learn through an experience in informal education, outside of the classroom experience. Participants intern in education-related offices, outreach programs, learning centers/programs at the school or district level, museums, evaluation agencies, or other school collaborative projects.

Outdoor environmental teaching positions include working with students PreK-12 from Southern Arizona public and private schools to encourage the hands-on learning and exploration of the Sonoran Desert. Training is provided based on the Cooper Center’s Mission Statement and the ideals of the Institute for Earth Education in order to “emphasize understanding of basic ecological processes, develop positive feelings for the natural world, and make personal lifestyle changes.”

Leadership & Learning Innovation (LLI) majors can use internships for elective credit in their program of study and are a great way for students to explore career paths, get academic credit, and build their resumes all at the same time.  Internships also give students the opportunity to: put methods and theories from coursework into practice, engage with a professional community and develop valuable leadership skills such as critical thinking, communication, and collaboration, gain concrete experience for future employers in areas such as program design, advocacy, and assessment.

The LLI internship course for credit is offered to sophomores, juniors and seniors. Students typically want a 3-unit internship but are able to seek 1- 6 units of course credit for successfully completing the syllabus requirements of the internship course. 

Lyndale Bondoc is a junior at the University of Arizona majoring in Environmental Science, with an emphasis on soil, air and water. Growing up in Tucson, Lyndale was not very exposed to the natural land she grew up in. Once she got older and explored more of what nature has to offer, she found an appreciation and passion for preserving and protecting the place we call home. She has discovered an interest in being outdoors and connecting people with the environment.

Through Earth Grant and The Cooper Center, Lyndale will continue developing her skills in community outreach, environmental communication/education and public speaking. Ultimately, Lyndale is pursuing a career that includes both environmental education and ecological restoration in order to help our environment prosper.
 

Maria is a senior at the University of Arizona, double majoring in French and Sustainable Built Environments, with a focus on sustainable communities. Growing up, she didn’t have much of a connection to nature. However, after moving to Tucson and being immersed in a community deeply connected to the environment, Maria discovered a profound appreciation for the natural world around her.

Her passion for education blossomed during her internship with the @uabiodiversity, where she realized her love for teaching. Now, at the Cooper Center, Maria continues to strengthen her bond with nature while inspiring kids to connect with the environment. She finds joy in witnessing the amazement and curiosity on their faces as they explore the wonders of the natural world.

Santiago is a Junior at San Miguel High School and comes to camp every Wednesday. From helping with program prep and keeping our facilities running smoothly to feeding Ziggy and Elvis (our king snake educators), Santi is always ready to lend a hand.

What makes Santi truly special is his eagerness to learn and his growing love for the Sonoran Desert, which he shares with students and visitors alike. We were thrilled to see his hard work recognized in the Fall of 2024 with the Junior Shining Star Award from San Miguel High School. 

A huge thanks to @sanmiguelhs for partnering with us and celebrating this remarkable young leader.