Department of Applied Environmental Science
AES Student Completes Natural Resources Internship
Benjamin Pedersen, a current Environmental Studies major, completed an internship with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources this past summer.
We recently reached out to Ben to learn more about his internship. Check out his interview below!
What was your internship project about?
Over the summer of 2023, I was a Natural Resources Intern in Buffalo County, Wisconsin. In this position, I primarily worked with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, conserving public land. I also had the opportunity to work with many kinds of animals alongside different federal, state, and local agencies. The internship expanded my knowledge of natural resources as a whole and gave me invaluable real-world experience.
What did you gain from this experience and does this experience contribute to your career goals?
During my internship, I learned loads of practical skills that I did not attain before, ranging anywhere from butterfly identification to cutting down a tree. The skills I learned are critical to have as I further develop my career in natural resources.
What was your favorite part of your internship?
It is extremely difficult to pick a favorite, but I really enjoyed Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake surveying. We did this a few times throughout the summer, and each time, about eight of us wandered through a prairie all day looking for these snakes. Every time we found one, we collected data on them, which is crucial to know since they are a threatened species.
What are your future plans (career, academic, etc.)?
After I graduate this spring, I plan to move to the Pacific Northwest and continue my career in natural resources, working in city or state parks.
Any advice for fellow students interested in participating in this kind of research?
I highly encourage anyone interested in working in natural resources to try it out. In this field, you quickly learn what you like to do, receive many valuable experiences, and learn a lot about the environment.
Anything else you'd like to share?
I would like to express my gratitude to two of my past professors, Dr. Kelly Barr and Dr. Seth Gustafson, for their guidance in the application and interview processes for this internship, and for providing insightful information along the way.
Congratulations, Ben! We look forward to seeing where your professional endeavors take you!