Personal Background:

The beginning of my college experience was a mess. Entered with the intention of Computer Science I soon realized I enjoyed computers more as a hobby than a form of labor. The following year was spent exploring other options such as History, Engineering, Astronomy, and even Construction Management. My interest lead me to choose a major in Space Exploration; but even then I realized, although I was interested in the subject, I was not interested in the practice. I wanted to stay involved with Astronomy, but I considered my true passion for travel, wilderness, and conservation which had drawn me to Earth Science.

Recently graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Astrobiology. The name, Astrobiology, sparks the image of a scientist in a lab coat dissecting an alien. Although this is not completely far fetched from reality, it is not the current practice of an ‘Astrobiologist’. The fundamental, but broad, study of Astrobiology combines key attributes of various fields, mainly biology, geology, chemistry, and astronomy, to decipher the origin of life and its possibility to accumulate across the Universe. With Earth being the only known reference of life, the main practice is deeply involved with the current and progressing study of Earth Science.

AmeriCorps:

In short, a nonprofit organization which partners with various organizations to provide service to America’s land and citizens while also providing valuable training and experience for those entering the work force.

My Expectations:

To be brief, the main purpose of this internship would be to acquire entry and valuable training in the field of conservation. An additional task of mine is to document this six month experience with the intention to practice film and photography production, while also sharing with those interested.

Daily Life:

The uncertainty and variability of tasks is my biggest concern, but also one of the most valuable aspects of this experience. Even with the help of recruiters and counselors, it is difficult to get an idea of what daily life will be like. These next months could be spent working at one isolated location for days at a time or lounging about the housing on my days off.

The tasks could be anything from park/trail maintenance to ecological conservation. The latter is preferred but excited to contribute in every aspect.

My Gear:

In preparation, AmeriCorps is very clear on what they want you to bring. They are also helpful to get an idea of the living and storage situation. But uncertainties still apply…

Obviously they would like volunteers to be as minimalist as possible; they also mention there will be many days off at a time in extremely rural housing locations and we will need activities to occupy our time. I am fortunate enough to bring a vehicle which will provide additional and safe storage.

Not sure if I want to go through each item, so here is an overview: