I enjoyed working in an environment where my employer wanted to see me succeed and reflect on the work I was doing in order to find areas where I could improve and identify my own strengths and weaknesses. My job was also super fun. Teaching all ages about the environment and sharing your own expertise and knowledge is very rewarding and it's the best feeling when you've made an impact on someone's visit to the park. (And working at Custer State Park was a bonus in itself because the Black Hills of South Dakota are so beautiful.)
What I wish was different
I wish there were more members on our naturalist team to help with logistics of running programs and doing other projects around the park.
Advice
Come with an open mind. I accepted this internship knowing absolutely nothing about South Dakota and no one in the state. I was nervous to venture out and try something I had no experience with, but it was such a rewarding experience. Not only have I made lifelong friends through this internship, but I've gained experience that I will apply in all other internships and jobs in the future.
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Gate Attendant
May - August 2019 • Pierre, SD
What I liked
I enjoyed the work in general and my co-workers were very easy to get along with and the majority of customers were nice, which made the job even more enjoyable.
What I wish was different
We started to slowly get understaffed throughout the summer, but since it was a seasonal position it was too late in the season to hire anyone new.
Advice
Be quick to help and offer information to your guests. Do not be hesitant to help anyone (co-worker, guest, etc.).
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Habitat Intern
May - August 2019 • Mitchell, SD
What I liked
You get to work outside and see a lot of different areas and public land. Also, you get to learn how they manage public land and and create different habitat.
What I wish was different
You have to do a lot of noxious weed spraying which can get old sometimes.
Advice
Having experience with operating equipment is very useful, and being able to work by yourself often.
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Aquatic Invasive Species Intern
May - August 2019 • Chamberlain, SD
What I liked
The people and the experience
What I wish was different
Scheduling
Advice
Make sure you know what you’re getting into. Get all available details before you move across the country.
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Fisheries intern
June - August 2019 • Sioux Falls, SD
What I liked
What I wish was different
Advice
This internship provided more on job experience than any other that I saw. It was a great opportunity
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Habitat Intern
May - September 2019 • Rapid City, SD
What I liked
My coworkers were nice and helpful, and I learned valuable skills that are applicable to my current full-time job as a Conservation Technician.
What I wish was different
I wished I had gotten more experience with farming equipment during the internship.
Advice
Be proactive and open to learn new skills if the opportunities arise.
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Park manager
May - August 2019 • Lake Poinsett, SD
What I liked
Hands on work, hard work, variety of jobs
What I wish was different
We were a bit short staffed
Advice
Apply and be willing to do it all
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Habitat Inter
May - August 2019 • Rapid City, SD
What I liked
It built on my knowledge of invasive plant species and how it manage them.
What I wish was different
Advice
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Fisheries Intern
May - August 2019 • Chamberlain, SD
What I liked
I enjoyed the atmosphere of the workplace and the work I did. I learned a lot throughout the summer and enjoyed doing it.
