Issac, Harvard University: My work as a land stewardship 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, 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, Drake University: INHF was my first real-life magazine experience and instilled 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.
Rebecca, 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 on the whole.
Courtney, 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.
Angela, Iowa State University: I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work as an intern at INHF. Although I’d had several different job experiences through high school and college, the INHF was really the first place I ever worked where people were truly energized, enthused, and fulfilled by what they were doing. This set a standard for every future job I’ve pursued. Also, developing an understanding of the natural world in Iowa through my internship deepened my appreciation for the complex beauty that surrounds me. It made me realize just how precious, fragile, and resilient nature is, and that I should revel in it for awhile.
Leah M., Drake University: INHF gave me tons of great experience and my time there left an impact on me both professionally and personally. It was my first experience working for a non-profit and definitely opened my eyes to the various capacities one can work within a field, and exposed me to the road less traveled and rarely talked about in school. I also gained great web design experience and photo editing skills through my internship there. I think what left the biggest impact on me was the dedication and passion that everyone at INHF had for their job. That lit a fire in me and compelled to dig deep to discover what it is that makes me come alive and it challenged me to never become complacent in my job.
Andy, 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."
Elizabeth, University of Iowa: "This internship was a most rewarding experience and an excellent learning opportunity as well as a darn good time!"
Ben, Kirkwood Community College: "Everyday we went outside and experienced the prairie and other areas hands-on. It was fascinating to see it change from day to day and being 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."
Jessica, Iowa State University: "The internship was a great opportunity and was as diverse as the land we worked on. It took us to many places in Iowa and helped us each to appreciate the subtle difference in local ecotypes. We met many unique and motivated landowners. This internship was an amazing adventure. Aspect I like BEST about my internship: making a difference on the beautiful land of Iowa!"
Erik, Iowa State University: "This internship gave me a high level of freedom and responsibility. It was satisfying to work on projects that were really being done and significant to the community. The most important benefits of the internship were participating in a professional environment, and understanding the many pieces needed to run a highly successful land trust, i.e. media, fund-raising, memberships, and partnerships."
Casey, Kirkwood Community College: "I always felt best when working on savanna oak improvements, and remant 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 M., 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."
Tim, Iowa State University: "The staff at the INHF are dedicated to providing a high quality internship experience. Each has taken time out of their busy schedules to talk with us about their positions and the nature of their responsibilities and duties. This has made me feel more welcomed and given me a greater understanding, not just of my department, but of the foundation as a whole. I’m proud to be able to be a part of a foundation that has been so efficient and successful in protecting Iowa’s natural heritage."
Leah S., Drake University: "I had several internships before working at INHF and never before have I seen such dedication and true attention to a cause. The staff members at the foundation are not only extremely knowledgeable about the environment and their jobs but also warm and helpful in every way. They make me feel like part of the team instead of just another intern passing through. I know I will walk away from this experience more endeared to the natural world around me and fully armed with the tools I need to succeed after college. INHF is a great organization and a great place to intern."
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.”
