Internships provide more than just a resume boost—they shape futures, build confidence, and inspire change. For Jacqueline Choate, a student at DSST: Montview High School, her internship at Bluff Lake Nature Center was an opportunity to step into the world of wildlife conservation, take on real responsibilities, and connect with a mentor who has had a lasting impact on her career aspirations.
At Bluff Lake, Jacqueline’s had a wide range of responsibilities.
"Some responsibilities at Bluff Lake are assuring the well-being of the animals," Jacqueline explained. "This included staying on the designated paths, performing surveys, and testing the water levels. We also had to distinguish between invasive and non-invasive plants."
It wasn’t just about getting the job done—it was about respecting nature and working together to preserve the environment. As part of a team, Jacqueline and her fellow interns shared the responsibility of ensuring wildlife thrived in the natural space.
"This internship brought together students from various DSST schools to collaborate as a team, further strengthening my communication skills for future roles that may require effective teamwork and interpersonal skills," Jacqueline shared. She learned firsthand how collaboration could lead to positive change, something she believes will be a key asset in any career she pursues.
Looking ahead, Jacqueline’s experience at Bluff Lake has influenced her career path. "I aspire to work with animals in the future, and this experience has broadened my understanding of how nature preserves protect wildlife and the environment," she said. "This internship has not only enhanced my skill set but also strengthened my professional image, paving the way for future career opportunities."
For Jacqueline, one of the most impactful aspects of the internship was the mentorship of Tess Robeson, the Natural Resource Director at Bluff Lake. Tess guided Jacqueline and other interns through their hands-on work, sharing her extensive knowledge of conservation and helping them gain confidence in their roles.
"Having Tess Robeson as my mentor during this internship has been an incredible experience," Jacqueline said. "She was welcoming, kind, and took the time to answer my questions. She let me explore at my own pace, which was so helpful."
Tess, for her part, sees the internship as an opportunity to inspire the next generation of women to consider careers in STEM fields—especially those who might not yet see themselves in those roles.
"It’s exciting to be an Internship Mentor to young women because I am often one of the first people to expose them to working in nature," Tess explained. "I think doing hard work outside can scare a lot of women away, but it is fun and rewarding, and we are more than capable."
Tess shared that one of her main goals as a mentor is to show women that they belong in these fields and that hard work can be both empowering and enjoyable. She also encouraged women to explore the many facets of STEM careers.
"There are a lot of fields (in STEM), so do research on some of the cool career paths or jobs out there that you may not know exist,” she said. “It’s important to find a STEM field or project you’re passionate about. It makes a very positive impact if you are able to pursue something that makes you happy.”
As National Internship Awareness Month encourages reflection on the value of internships, Jacqueline’s experience at Bluff Lake serves as a powerful reminder of the mentorship and hands-on learning that can shape future careers. With women like Tess leading the way, young women like Jacqueline are gaining the skills and confidence needed to enter STEM fields, paving the way for a more inclusive, dynamic future in conservation and beyond.