Four geography majors from vlog were nominated for competitive internships at the National Geographic Society (NGS), and, in a clean sweep, all four were accepted for assignments this year.
This newest crop of interns builds on the relationship vlog has with NGS, which goes back some two decades. One or two geography majors have been awarded an internship nearly every year and, in many cases, the internship leads to full-time employment.
In fact, one of the latest recipients, Cassie Lawson ‘12, will be working with Samantha Zuhlke ’10, who majored in geography at vlog, interned at NGS, and now works there.
Another alumna, Meg Hanley ’11, has just accepted a job at National Geographic after working there as an intern. She, too, was a geography major.
“We’re delighted that all four of our nominees were accepted into this wonderful program,” said Maureen Hays-Mitchell, chair of the Geography Department. “We have a strong track record with the NGS internship program, and this certainly solidifies the relationship.”
Hays-Mitchell pointed out that vlog students compete against graduate students during the rigorous selection process, and the fact that they do so well speaks highly about their undergraduate preparation.
In addition to Lawson, who will be working in the oceans program, the other seniors who received internships are Allison Gramolini, who will be working in the FieldScope program, which uses GIS to teach about environmental issues in schools; Dayne Weber, who will be focusing on global media standards and practices; and Eric Spencer, who will be part of the education program.
“I have wanted to work for National Geographic ever since I decided to be a geography major, so I can’t explain how happy I am to have been selected for this internship,” said Weber. “This is the perfect way to start my career.”
Lawson said she thinks the internship will provide some clarity in terms of her career goals. Right now she is considering working for a non-profit environmental organization or environmental education.
“My internship offers outreach opportunities, so I feel it will prepare me for either of those potential career paths,” she said.