After completing her first-year term with us, Kaitlin came back for a second.
Before joining the team in 2011, Kaitlin was finishing up her two degrees in Environmental Studies and French. She was interested in the internship because of its relation to Environmental Studies but she accepted it because it also allowed her to explore one of her other interests: art.
As the former arts educator at the Center, Ranger Nicole imbues her programs with artistic elements. Kaitlin has designed and created many handouts, props, and crafts for the students who come to the Center. She has also become somewhat of the resident artist, as many of the staff turn to her when they need an imaginative poster or drawing.
“Kaitlin is a very innovative and creative individual, artistically inclined with an illustration pen and paints and savvy with computer applications,” Ranger Nicole enthuses. “She has designed a variety of colorful and accessible kid-friendly handouts for field trips for our 2nd-8th grade audience. She enjoys working with both the students and the adult chaperones who participate in our programs. She is patient and enthusiastic when teaching and engaging her audience in science, art, or outdoor investigations.”
This year, Kaitlin will also be helping with Project WISE (Watersheds Inspiring Student Education), a program offered to AP Environmental Science classes at Galileo Academy of Science and Technology. Kaitlin will further develop her skills in education while taking on a new challenge of working with high school students.
What will Kaitlin do after her internship? She says she’d love to attend graduate school or teach abroad. Her dream job involves a secondary language and international work. We’re sure that no matter where the winds take her, Kaitlin will bring her artistic talents, enthusiasm and passion.
For more information about the Volunteers-In-Parks program, visit www.nps.gov/getinvolved/volunteer.htm.
