My summer internship with Environment Illinois

In March, I was browsing summer internship opportunities and looking for a way to make a difference for the environment, while gaining skills that would help me stand out in the job market after graduating. I was immediately drawn to Environment America’s website, as their campaigns and mission aligned with my own goals and passions. After applying for an internship, I completed an interview and soon after, was offered the opportunity to work with Environment Illinois for the summer.

I jumped right into working on building support for a bill to phase out polystyrene foam cups, take-out containers and other foodware in Illinois. I was trained to reach out to stakeholders, phone bank members to build support, and develop social media and website content. It was exciting to know I was right in the middle of an important movement to reduce plastic waste for an entire state. Although the bill didn’t pass as is this session, the legislature did pass a phase out of polystyrene foam foodware for government agencies and I know that the support I helped build for the ban will only strengthen the movement in the future.

As we transitioned to the summer, I started building my own campaign plan to support Recovering America’s Wildlife Act, a bipartisan federal bill to fund state wildlife conservation efforts. I gained even more writing and research experience, and  learned best practices for reaching as many people as possible through social media. I also published a report on Illinois’ Wildlife Action Plan and how the state’s wildlife could benefit from Recovering America’s Wildlife Act. But, a big highlight of my internship was event-planning for this campaign. I planned a Wildlife Walk at Humboldt Park, as well as an Action Day at Lincoln Park Zoo to raise awareness of the bill and encourage people to take action. 

My goals for this internship were to grow as an environmental advocate, and find ways to connect with all different types of people on environmental issues. I wanted to feel like I was really making a difference, and I wanted to inspire others to do the same to protect our planet.

Those goals were met, and I am walking away from this internship feeling inspired and motivated to continue this kind of important work. I encourage any student interested in finding ways they can make a difference for the environment, to check out Environment Illinois and the great work this organization is doing. I am confident in saying that you won’t regret it!