By Fatima Magana '22

COLUMBUS—Environmental science major Olivia Smith ’26 spent her summer gaining experience as an intern at the Parks and Watercraft division of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Smith's career goal is to work in conservation education upon graduating, and this internship taught her valuable skills that will help her succeed as a professional.

Smith '26 outside of the Parks and Watercraft Nature Center

“I assisted in educational programming, completed projects around the park, like creating an aquatic education center, and took care of the ambassador animals,” said Smith. “I was in the Nature Center every day and served as a resource for guests.”

Smith explained that her experience with the ODNR would not have been possible without the help of Jaci Scherb ’24, a Mount Union alumna. Scherb’s internship experience with Parks and Watercraft inspired Smith to apply and further explore career paths in the environmental science field.

Smith '26 holding an 'ambassador' snake

“I gained valuable experience through this internship and developed important professional skills that I can use as I enter the workforce, such as how to engage an audience and foster curiosity about our natural world in people of all ages,” said Smith. “My supervisor and the park manager at Wingfoot helped me succeed, giving me the freedom to pursue projects that I had a passion for, as well as opportunities to see different parts of the state, like attending an event for Ohio's First Lady DeWine in Xenia, Ohio.”

Smith explained that this internship helped her expand her connections with professionals outside of Mount Union, which allowed her to continue discovering what passions she has. Learn more about the environmental science major at Mount Union.