Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation: Internships

Andy, Communications, Drake University: "The internship coordinator for the School of Journalism at Drake mentioned how lucky I was to have 'one of the best' communications internships in Des Moines. As a communications intern at the Foundation, I realized this statement was true."

Bruce, Land Stewardship, Iowa State University: "When I got the job, all I knew was that it would meet my school requirements, but then the next thing I knew, I was having fun at work and learning every day. On top of that, I found myself with 8 new close friends that will be with me the rest of my life. This internship showed me why I love this work and its purpose."

Isaac, Program Support, Harvard University: "My work as an intern showed me how effective a well-run non-profit conservation group can be. It also gave me great experience writing grants, which may become quite useful in the future if I conduct research or lead a project of my own.”

Susan, Communications, University of Northern Iowa: "My affiliation with INHF gives me more credibility, as INHF is and continues to be highly regarded. I would recommend an internship with INHF to almost anyone … even if they weren’t interested in a career in the environmental field. They would have a rare opportunity to work with a staff that’s highly competent and dedicated. Most importantly, they would be working with people who exemplify professionalism."

Kelly, Communications, Drake University: "INHF was my first real-life magazine experience and instilled in me a life-long interest in the environment. I always say that without each step in my career, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and that’s true of IHNF. I learned so much about the power of communications — magazine or not — to influence and change the world for good."

Courtney, Land Stewardship, Iowa State University: "The INHF internship changed my world and I love it. My experiences last summer as a land stewardship intern were wonderful and beyond my wildest dreams. The prairie bug bit me and I think my future will forever be restoration."

Kristi, Program Support, Drake University: "I have already had the chance to learn about Iowa ecosystems, watch and learn how a non-profit organization works, volunteer my time for different projects I am interested in, and work with people who have a true passion for their job. The opportunity to write grants will catapult my career in non-profit work. Everyone at INHF, from the other interns to the Program Coordinators to the Director of Public Policy, has been more than willing to let me help them and learn from them."

Dustin, Land Stewardship, Central College: "The INHF land stewardship internship has been a great experience that has enabled me to see many of Iowa's unique ecosystems, develop my abilities in field work and create lasting friendships."

Rebecca, Communications, University of Northern Iowa: "I learned everyone has something to contribute to a goal, be it acquiring land to protect bluffs or to make a stream safe for human contact. I’m reminded of the quote, 'No one can do everything, but if we all do something, we can do anything.' I think the staff at INHF exemplifies that quite well."

Ben, Land Stewardship, Kirkwood Community College: "Every day, we went outside and experienced the prairie and other areas hands on. It was fascinating to see it change from day to day and be able to help it succeed where I could. I admit, it was hard work, but at the same time it was so rewarding and fun. I couldn't have asked for such a wonderful way to spend my summer."

Mike, Land Stewardship, Iowa State University: "There is nothing more rewarding than admiring the work and the incredible Iowa landscape from the top of a hill that we have just helped restore to prairie."

Courtney, Program Support, Luther College: "I am given responsibilities that challenge me on a daily basis, and best of all, I have been able to apply the knowledge I have learned from the classroom into real-life scenarios."

Casey, Land Stewardship, Kirkwood Community College: "I always felt best when working on savanna oak improvements and remnant prairie clearing. It is always fun being able to see your progress, which is the case in both. It is like digging up treasure; at the end of the day it is truly satisfying seeing the priceless product."

Leah, Design, Drake University: "From the moment I started here at INHF, the positive energy and excitement of the staff was contagious. You could truly tell that everyone was passionate about what they were doing and I am proud to have been a part of that. Not only has my heart for the environment grown, but I have gained so much practical and useful experience and knowledge related to my major, and it will do nothing but help me in the future."

And even parents: “As the parents of a former intern, we can verify that experience is indeed life-changing. The staff was superb working with young people. You have our deepest thanks.”

INHF Intern Testimonials