Water resource management is complex and professionals in the field need an understanding of agriculture, natural resources, communication, social sciences and economics, public health, and planning and project management to be successful. That said, currently there is little to no training available at the undergraduate level for individuals interested in watershed outreach and management roles. The Watershed Management Research and Outreach Undergraduate Internship Program helps students from all backgrounds gain valuable experience that will help you pursue future careers in watershed management. Extension faculty at seven different institutions mentor interns over the summer.
Whether you are interested in water resource management, soil health, agriculture, nutrient management, lake and stream monitoring, weather and climate, forestry, or limnology – this internship is for you!
The application deadline for the Summer 2024 Internship Program has been extended through December 8th.
Register for the 2024 Watershed Management REEU Informational Webinar (November 17 at 11AM CT) HERE.
Key Program Information
Where are the internships located?
Interns will be placed in one of six locations throughout the North Central Region of the US. Students will apply through one central application and note their top choices for internship placement of the institutions/locations listed:
- University of Illinois – Intern located in Champaign or Galesburg Illinois
- Iowa State University – Intern located in Ames, Iowa
- University of Nebraska – Intern located in Lincoln, Nebraska
- North Dakota State University – Intern located in Fargo, North Dakota
- South Dakota State University – Intern located in Aberdeen, South Dakota
- University of Wisconsin-Madison – Intern located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
What will the internship focus on?
While the internships will range in location, topic, and format, they each will provide students with broader perspectives and experience in water-related research and extension education. Students will gain real world experience with the complexities and trade-offs associated with water-related decisions in rural and urban landscapes.
In addition, students will get to know the interns in other locations across the region and participate in multistate exchanges exposing them to other ecoregions, agriculture and municipal systems, universities, and cultural contexts. As students are exposed to opportunities in extension, the program will develop interest in individuals for water management related careers outside of dedicated research.
Are the internships paid?
Yes! Internships are paid and full-time over the summer – from the end of May to the middle of August 2024. Students will be paid $15/hour in addition to up to $1,000 reimbursement for travel to the program site and a stipend of roughly $3,420 for subsistence support.
Please note – compensation may vary slightly state by state and Illinois will be providing a higher hourly pay rate and will not be providing subsistence support.
Who should apply?
All undergraduate students – regardless of home institution – are encouraged to apply. Since the internships will vary in focus, students studying a variety of fields – including agronomy, community planning, engineering, environmental science, natural resource planning, plant and soil science, water resources, weather, and climate science and more – will have the experience necessary to be successful.
Please note – To be eligible you must be a US Citizen or permanent resident and a current undergraduate student in the US with at least one year of undergraduate coursework completed and at least one semester of coursework remaining after your summer internship before obtaining your bachelor’s degree. Unfortunately, international students are not eligible. This opportunity is only for undergraduate students.
How do I apply?
Students can apply for the summer 2024 internships using a central application that will open shortly. This application is hosted through Qualtrics and asks you to provide:
- Your resume
- Your institution and expected graduation rate
- A cover letter outlining your relevant background and interests and how this experience will empower you to lead a career related to watershed management outreach and/or research. You may also include a brief overview of your ideal watershed management outreach and research internship experience or future job.
- Contact information for three professional, academic, or personal references
- Information on your interests within water resource management
- Your location preference and the degree of your preference
Please note, the website Pathways to Science includes resources for students on preparing a cover letter and resume for those looking for help in creating their application materials.
Questions? Interested but not sure if it’s the right fit for you? Set up a time with our team to chat! We are happy to answer any questions you might have as you consider your application. Simply send an email to John.McMaine@sdstate.edu using the subject line: Watershed Management Internship outlining your question and we will get you in contact with a mentor for an informal chat.
