Interview #2 - Donna Gibbs

Introduction

Donna worked as a education intern at Santa Monica Mountains NationalRecreation Area. She helped in education under the Division of Interpretation. One of the projects involved revision of the Parks as Labs Program for 6th, 7th and 8th grades.

Why did you want to become an intern?

I am fortunate to live close to the Santa Monica Mountains and daily encounter the native flora and fauna. I wanted to learn more about them while at the same time learn ways to help students grow in awareness and appreciation for the natural world

Which field(s) interest you?

Education, Theology and the Sciences hold great interest for me. However, on the foundational level the practice of sustainable living and human/earth relationships fascinate and challenge my daily life.

How much time did you commit to your internship?

During the summer of 2002, I was able to devote about 200 hours.

Tell us about your college career.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Early Child Development and an Elementary Teaching Credential, I decided to seek a Master of Arts in Earth Literacy. In this program I am learning about the natural world (how to read the earth) in order to do what I can to ensure sustainability ofthe planet as a habitat for life.

What have you gained from your experience as an intern?

First, I learned quite a bit about the soil, air, water, plant and animal interactions within our Santa Monica Mountains along with how precious and rare this Mediterranean Biome is. Second, I learned how I could incorporate some of this information into my science curriculum. Third, I learned what dedicated, generous and caring people work for our National Parks right here in the Santa Monica Mountains amidst one of the largest metropolitan areas of our nation.

Do you feel your goals for this internship have been met?

My goals for this internship have been met a hundred times over. Thank you for the valuable learning opportunity. Thank you for working to keep our great mountains in their natural state.