Environmentor Program

Overview

The Environmentor Program at Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability and Equity (RISE) is a paid internship that provides 12–15 high school sophomores and juniors in the spring and summer to conduct authentic field research under the mentorship of scientists from local universities and research institutions.

Beginning in January, students will take part in after-school programming once a week throughout the remainder of the school year. During the after-school program RISE staff use the shoreline to familiarize students with local ecology, field research methods, and environmental issues of the Rockaways and Jamaica Bay. Students meet with science professionals, take field trips to local natural areas and research facilities, and participate in environmental restoration projects around the Rockaways.

Students paired with mentors spend 7 weeks conducting field and lab work, along with participating in outdoor recreational activities at RWA, such as surfing and kayaking. At the end of the summer, students present their research projects to the community.

Benefits:
Students receive a stipend
Access to outdoor recreational activities such as surfing and kayaking