Intern of the Week: Sylvie Downin

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:49:03 -0500
environmental-systems, geography, geological-survey, intern, intern-of-the-week, internship, iotw

Name: Sylvie Downin

Pronouns: She/her

Semester of Internship: Fall 2023

Major: Geography & Environmental Systems

Current Class Level: Junior

This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): US Geological Survey through Virtual Student Federal Service

Title of position: Student Intern

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:

For the 2023-24 school year I am interning with the US Geological Survey through Virtual Student Federal Service. I have been researching the ecology and geography of National Parks to be shown on the USGS website. I just recently finished my first write-up on New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and am now beginning Catoctin Mountain Park. Since the internship is completely virtual, I check in with a mentor every week, who guides me through the writing and research process.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?

I had heard about VSFS through social media and applied over the summer to one of their internships. There were so many to choose from-lots of opportunities!

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

LinkedIn or other social media

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?

I get to research the places I want to travel to and obtain college credit at the same time.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?

I hope to educate folks on the little parts of National Parks that go unnoticed, like flora, fauna, rocks, minerals, etc.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?

A virtual internship gives you great experiences while still allowing you to focus mainly on your school work. Do not overlook a virtual internship just because it’s virtual.

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.

I enjoy getting to work independently to produce information for the public. Educating the public on the importance of our environment is vital.

Do you want the chance to be the next Intern of the Week? Fill out this form to be considered!