An Experience You'll Never Forget

 We are now accepting applications for a three week trip this June 20-July 10, with a second offering July 10-31 if there is enough interest.  Between these two offerings we can train up to 16 summer interns for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit and study the northernmost island in the Kodiak archipelago.  Interns will spend a two weeks in Kodiak designing and building wilderness trails and interact with natural resource professionals. Students will undergo kayak training, learn about sustainable trails, become familiar with the wildlife, geography and culture while acclimating to Kodiak’s long days and challenging environment.   The third week of each program is a capstone experience--spending a week cruising the Alaskan Coastline, gathering marine debris, learning about its causes and effects on the food chain, and observing humankind’s impact on the ocean world from the perspective of one of Alaska’s most remote and beautiful shores. 

The itinerary of the internship combines volunteerism with education and adventure, for an experience you can feel great about and will never forget.  All the elements of a great educational experience: environmental stewardship, first-hand experience in fieldwork, and interactions with wildlife and natural systems.  In addition, several times per week we will offer an experiential trip--sea kayaking, tidepooling or hiking to explore the beauty of the surrounding area. 

The type of student that would benefit most from this program is one who is interested in studying natural sciences, particularly natural resource management, wildlife or marine biology, oceanography, and environmental science.  It would also be beneficial to those interested in non-profits, natural resource management, economics, political science, and environmental activism.  But regardless of academic interest, a term in the Kodiak backcountry will shape your perspective on the world.  Read the 2009 trip blog or this testimonial from Hannah Lindsell and Justin Stewart, CGPS class of 2010.

Previous field experience is not required, however students should be able-bodied and adequately dressed. 

Logistics, projects and activities are subject to local weather conditions and may be subject to change without notice.  Where possible, ITN staff will keep this calendar updated with the most recent and current information.  Grants from sponsors such as the Natural Resources Conservation Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service will cover the costs of food, lodging, training and on-island transportation.