The National Geographic Society & The Nature Conservancy Freshwater and Community Conservation Externship

Are you ready to explore how freshwater conservation is shaping the future of our planet?
The National Geographic Society + The Nature Conservancy Freshwater and Community Conservation Externship is an 8-week, part-time, fully remote experience where you’ll investigate the health of our freshwater ecosystems and translate global challenges into local action.

Working alongside renowned scientists and passionate peers, you’ll research, analyze, and communicate strategies that safeguard freshwater ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. From examining water scarcity and freshwater pollution to engaging local leaders on watershed protection, you’ll play a pivotal role in identifying how your community can advance freshwater stewardship, all while honing the research and storytelling skills that will fuel a purpose-driven career in conservation.

✓ We are seeking young people ages 18-25 from around the globe interested in learning about introductory conservation approaches and exploring a career in conservation.
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✓ No prior work experience or coursework in conservation or environmental topics is required

✓ Freshwater Conservation Exploration
Examine pressing issues such as freshwater access and quality, watershed protection, river and wetland degradation, and habitat loss, along with emerging solutions.

‍✓ Investigative Research
Apply primary and secondary methods to evaluate conservation initiatives and uncover local freshwater challenges.

✓ Community Engagement & Public Speaking
Interview leaders, conservationists, and residents to highlight the ties between your community and freshwater ecosystems.

✓Problem-Solving & Solution Design
Identify gaps in local efforts and craft actionable strategies to strengthen freshwater protection.

✓ Storytelling for Impact
Develop written, visual, and verbal narratives that inspire audiences to support freshwater conservation.

✓ Freshwater-Systems Literacy:Develop a nuanced understanding of core freshwater challenges and the policy and community tools used to address them.

✓ Research & Insight Development:Practice both primary and secondary research methods, then translate findings into clear, actionable insights.

✓ Community-Focused Problem-Solving:Learn structured frameworks for spotting gaps in local conservation efforts and shaping realistic, impact-oriented solutions that align with regional needs.

✓ Cross-Sector Collaboration:Engage with The National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy experts, gaining firsthand exposure to how scientists, communicators, and community partners drive conservation initiatives together.

✓ Portfolio-Ready Deliverables:Produce an Esri StoryMap that you can showcase in future academic, professional, or grant applications.

✓ Global-to-Local Systems Thinking:Strengthen your ability to trace how large-scale freshwater processes ripple into local economies, cultures, and ecosystems.

✓ $500 Stipend
Students who successfully complete their externships will receive their educational stipends at the end of the program. This stipend is provided to offset internet and technology costs required for program completion.