04 Aug Intern life at the Caribbean Climate Hub

At the hub…

As my first month ends, working as an EFTA intern at the Caribbean Climate Hub at the international institute of tropical forestry, I quickly realize the many experiences I have had. I have already had the opportunity to go on field trips around Puerto Rico to gain insight into our partners here at the hub, ranging from a sustainable local wood business to a university agricultural research center. These experiences have shown me how the Caribbean has adapted to different climate change-induced progressive changes. At the University of Puerto Rico Agricultural Experiment Station, the hub got a tour of the facilities where work done in agriculture and livestock is conducted. The facility allows the hub to collaborate with our projects to further our mission of addressing climate in the Caribbean. Day to day, however, I am working a lot more on the science communication side of things focusing on translation and interpretation projects and website content creation for national and regional programs. I plan on exploring more projects as they arise as an EFTA intern, and I hope to see my progression in my professional skills and experience. 

Personal growth…

Moving to the island of Puerto Rico reminds me of why the work of the US forest service is essential for communities and the management of resources. Communities, including many in the Caribbean, depend on these resources. I have seen firsthand how my office has impacted agricultural communities’ and landowners’ operations and property management practices. The hub offers information, strategies, and funding opportunities to farming communities that could benefit from our work. 

Overall…

I am excited to use the experiences and learning opportunities I have acquired for future projects in this position and my long-term career path. Environment for the Americas has genuinely given the entire cohort an excellent opportunity for people wanting to take the following steps in their career path. While we all may be doing different kinds of work, they all contribute to the mission of connecting humans with the environment and making a brighter future.