The Chicago area, despite its urban character, is home to significant biodiversity. Situated at the intersection of the northern boreal forest, prairie, savanna, and dune environments, Chicago is a crossroads for more than just our own species. Here the great eastern tallgrass prairies met oak-hickory woodlands as well as wetlands, savannas, swamps, and other associations, forming a complex mosaic of environments. The long history of human habitation in this region has significantly transformed local environments, but not all pre-contact environments have vanished and local efforts at restoration and conservation have begun to make a significant difference in the extent and health of indigenous plants and animals. Our logo is derived from the Hickory (Carya); local oak-hickory forests are dominated by Shagbark Hickory (C. ovata) and Bitternut Hickory (C. cordiformis).As part of the requirements for graduating with a B.A. in Environmental Studies, all students are expected to participate in either an internship or a field placement (hereafter "internships"). This "real world" experience not only helps you hone your academic focus (B.A. Thesis and beyond) but also better prepares you for employment (in terms of learning skills and connecting with people) upon graduation.
What kind of internships are possible?
- Working at an environmental law firm in New Mexico with a focus on indigenous communities...
- Measuring and addressing lead levels in Englewood (about 1 mile away)...
- Advocating on water shortage issues in Mumbai, India...
The purpose of the internship is to provide you with hands-on skills and experience. There are no set "placements" but the Environmental Studies Program will help provide guidance and resources. In the end - it is what the best fit is for you. We encourage local, national and international internships.
How do you find out about internship opportunities?
An updated database of internship opportunities is forthcoming.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) keeps an up to date list of internships. The EPA Summer Student Employment Opportunities Website is no longer accepting applications for Summer 2008, but information about Fall internships and opportunities can be found on their website.You will be required to meet with Shayna Plaut, Internship Coordinator. Shayna will help you brainstorm interests, strengths, skills and feasibility to best meet your academic and personal needs in a suitable internship. Shayna can be reached at 773-834-4408 or shayna@uchicago.edu. Her office is in Pick 124.
What about money?
The average stipend granted from the Environmental Studies Program will be $1500, but students can be awarded up to $3000 depending on their budgets and the expenses involved in the proposed project. Students are encouraged to explore other funding options as well. A modest grant is available from the Program to students who provide a cogent, credible internship proposal that speaks to their academic and professional trajectory. Additionally, there are many programs within the College that do provide financial assistance. Additional information will be available online soon; meanwhile informational flyers are available from the Environmental Studies faculty/staff.
What's the time line?
You are required to complete an internship before graduation. You can engage in your internship during the school year (we have many Chicago organizations). Many students choose to do this during the summer of their 3rd-4th year but this is not required.
Pending funding, the Program for the Global Environment and the Environmental Studies program will sponsor an undergraduate organized and run conference during the 2008-09 academic year. The program will provide funding, staffing, and advising for this project. We invite interested undergraduates in any major or concentration to submit preliminary proposals.
