IMPORTANCE OF Kenya Staley
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few weeks before Vaneza Rodriguez embarked on her journey navigating a summer internship, we spoke about her expectations and nerves surrounding the process. It was evident through her dialogue that Rodriguez wanted to gain as much knowledge as possible. “I’m also very excited to hear about other people’s journeys and how they got to where they are today. I have been given a great opportunity and I want to take advantage of it.”, Rodriguez admitted. “One thing that I was nervous about before getting started was not knowing what to do. I got a sense of calmness during the internship orientation when one of the speakers said that we don’t know and we are there to learn.” she continued,
“I am a very shy and reserved person, this internship is completely out of my comfort zone and I’m excited to see how it helps me grow.”
@kenyastaley California’s diverse fish, wildlife, and plant resources, and the habitats upon which they depend, for their ecological values and for their use and enjoyment by the public.” Depending on who needed help, Rodriguez spent time completing either plant surveys or carnivore reportsBeginning her days bright and early, Rodriguez would sometimes even travel two hours to her destination and spend up to 6 hours on a boat assisting with research. “The description for my site was exactly what I was looking for. I knew that I didn’t want to be in a lab or office all summer. On my second day at my site I was hiking gear ready for the day out on the field.” Although Rodriguez admitted to being shy, she immersed herself in ensuring she made great, lifelong connections. Rodriguez mentioned that networking was the most vital aspect to her experience. She wanted to leave the internship feeling like she had chosen the right major and had a handson experience. Thankfully, she ended her time with California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife extremely fulfilled. Excited for her future, Rodriguez encouraged her fellow students at Chaffey College to always keep a lookout for new opportunities in their field to take part of.
Chaffey College student, Vaneza Rodriguez spent the majority of her summer on a boat researching with California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife. According to the website, their mission is to “manage
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