LESSONS FROM MY SUMMER INTERNSHIP - NATIONAL RIVERS AND STREAMS ASSESSMENT WITH THE NAGT AND USGS

With increasing numbers of retirements planned in the professional sector in the next few years there will be a high demand for proficient geoscientists to step into these roles. Geoscience students can better prepare for a professional career by developing job experience, gain problem solving skills, and build the confidence for upcoming opportunities in the private and public sector through internships.

My internship has taught me valuable lessons for my future as a geoscientist. Through the National Association of Geoscience Teachers, I received an internship with the United States Geological Survey, Montana Water Science Center. I was able to spend a summer in the field working with standard hydrological tools on various projects such as, water quality projects, wetland projects, superfund projects, as well as surface water monitoring for emergency, agriculture, and recreational needs.

The main project that I was involved with was the National Rivers and Streams Assessment funded by the EPA. I was able to use the many skills I learned in previous projects to create a comprehensive analysis of the conditions of the rivers and streams in the state of Montana. From the Yellowstone River to the smallest Beaver Creek, I was a part of a team that surveyed and collected biological, ecological, geological, and chemical data of the rivers and streams across Montana. This experience has broadened my understanding of the necessity of water and how it is studied and monitored. My internship will enabled me to apply this experience to other jobs in the industry as water is an important part of geologically based industry in the public and private sectors. Additionally, my adventures in Montana this summer has given me a unique insight to the purpose, organization, and goals of the USGS as well as the experience and confidence to succeed in my future endeavors.