The diversity of work I got to do, I was able to work on many facets of the experiment and wasn't too narrow-focused.
What I wish was different
I was conducting a lot of preliminary data analysis in my role because I am a statistics major but there was no one I worked with who could help me with the advanced models I was trying to create. I wish I could have had a little more guidance with my specific duties.
Advice
Be open-minded about opportunities. A job or internship may not seem like the perfect fit for what you're interested in but sometimes employers will be flexible and allow you to pursue things that you're more interested in even if it's not in the position description. You can also learn a lot from working in a new environment and a new setting.
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Research Field Assistant
May - July 2018 • Osa, Puntarenas Province
What I liked
Amazing setting and community of researchers and field assistants
Variety of experience working with different wildlife and various projects
What I wish was different
I wished for better communication from bosses and between staff members
Better accommodations for interns and organization within the nonprofit
More guidance and realistic expectations for completing projects
Advice
Make your own goals for what you want to get out of your internship and how you can help the organization in the time you have, rather than expecting your employers to determine that.
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Ríos Saludables Intern
May - August 2018 • Osa, Puntarenas Province
What I liked
Doing field work for a study on river shrimp was an incredible experience. We hiked through jungles and rivers all across the Peninsula setting shrimp traps.
What I wish was different
I wish that I had a better academic background in species identification before going.
Advice
I got this internship initially because I reached out to a Wes alum who two of my professors said was doing work I would be interested in. My advice is to always reach out to alumni and the people your professors think you should network with, you never know what amazing opprotunity could arise!
