As a business major, I believe that corporations have an obligation to their customers to practice sustainable business policies. As a fine arts double major, I believe that our government should focus on developing sustainability in all aspects. While at John Heinz, I have learned the importance of sustainability and the direct impact that Urban living has not only in the environment but our communities as well.

My first day at John Heinz was reliving. I was given a tour of the refuge and updated on rules and regulations, community outreach, and partnerships. I was informed of “iNaturalist,” an app that identifies species of plants and animals that you may not know (I use it on a daily basis).

My second week at John Heinz was informative. I attend a variety of community meetings and participated in educational tabling events. The following week, however, was exhausting. It was the week of the Philly Nature Kids Camp. A week-long camp where 25 students from local schools came to JHNWR to experience the outdoors and learn about conservation. Preparing for the camp was no easy task, but taking care of 25 students from 8 am to 4 pm provide to be more challenging. I, however, would not have had it any other way. This week, I learned about the student's dreams and aspirations. I learned about the disadvantaged community in Philadelphia. I was able to connect with the kids and teach them about environmental conservation.

Next week marks my first month into this amazing internship. Although it was not originally what I expected, it has proven to be informative. This month, I went fishing for the first time. I caught my first fish at JHNWR. I instated my first community partnership. I look forward to learning more, to rekindling Hispanic partnerships, to planning for Latino Conservation week. I look forward to all that is to come at my time at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum.