
Simon Aceto
California State University - Monterey BayMount Rainier National Park- [Park Home]
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Simon Aceto is deeply passionate about environmental protection and stewardship, studying Environmental Studies with a focus on sustainable communities at CSUMB. Engaging in various enriching courses and experiences during his time there, he has gained practical skills for real-world scenarios. CSUMB has been pivotal in shaping his perspective and paving the way for opportunities. One such opportunity is the Mosaics in Science Internship Program. As an aspiring environmentalist and former Fish & Feathers Intern, Simon values being selected for this program at Mt. Rainier. This internship represents a milestone in his career towards making a tangible impact on the environment. Collaborating with the National Park Service, exploring diverse ecosystems, and contributing to environmental conservation inspires Simon. He wants to make a positive impact on local and global scales through policy advocacy, community engagement, or sustainable development initiatives. Simon believes that the Mosaics program and Environment for the Americas will be instrumental in helping him achieve his goals.

Kyra Bassett
Clemson University
Cuyahoga National Park [Park Home]
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Kyra Bassett earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Florida International University and a Master of Wildlife and Fisheries Resources from Clemson University. Her love for animals started early and grew into a deep passion for nature. In her free time, she volunteers with various animals like pelicans, owl monkeys, and opossums. This hands-on experience with wildlife fueled her desire to make a meaningful impact, shaping her career path. Kyra's dream is to work as a wildlife biologist, focusing on reintroducing species to their natural habitats. Witnessing the environmental harm caused by human activities and the extinction of diverse plant and animal species, she is committed to supporting conservation efforts. Her dedication has led her to programs like Mosaics. Participating in this summer internship will enhance her knowledge of environmental processes, furthering her growth both personally and professionally as a scientist.

Terence Borja
University of GuamWar in the Pacific National Historical Park - [Park Home]
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Terence is dedicated to specializing in History, with aspirations to establish himself as a Pacific Historian. Their passion lies in immersive fieldwork, favoring it over laboratory settings, yet they are keen on honing lab techniques. Particularly intrigued by coral surveying and snorkeling for data collection on coral bleaching during fieldwork, they are also eager to partake in outdoor pursuits like hiking, kayaking, and camping to deepen their environmental insights. With dreams of a career within the National Park focusing on history, Terence eagerly anticipates engaging in fieldwork, drawing from past hiking experiences on the island. Their passion for historical research has evolved into a personal hobby, especially during the pandemic. They have extensively explored trails, showing a particular fondness for the challenging Sasalaguan trail. Terence's proficiency in water-related endeavors like swimming and snorkeling align with roles in the National Park services, reflecting a well-rounded passion for the environment.

Michael Borbolla
Florida International UniversityBiscayne National Park - [Park Home]
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Michael Borbolla, a Cuban ecologist from Miami, is pursuing a Ph.D. in Earth Systems Science at Florida International University. During his undergrad, Michael researched various areas, such as mercury's effects on bull sharks in the Florida Everglades, turf algae impact on coral reefs, commensal species in gopher tortoise burrows, and invasive peafowl in urban Miami. Additionally, Michael interned with the National Park Service’s South Florida Caribbean Network, aiding in ecological monitoring at sites like Big Cypress National Preserve and Biscayne National Park. Currently, Michael works in the Tropical Rivers Lab under Dr. Elizabeth Anderson's guidance. His Ph.D. research focuses on aquatic resource management and human-wildlife interactions, especially in fishing. Rooted in childhood fishing experiences and engaging with diverse South Florida communities, Michael blends environmental justice, ecotoxicology, and aquatic resource management. His ongoing studies on fishing practices and ecotoxicology in the Miami River offer essential insights to FIU’s CREST Center for ecosystem assessments. In addition to his academic and research roles, Michael serves as an Emerge Fellow for the Society for Freshwater Science, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in freshwater science. He also volunteers with Skype-A-Scientist, giving educational talks on biology, ecology, and conservation to students from kindergarten to high school, highlighting his dedication to education and community engagement.

Sophia Britto
Texas A&M UniversityGlacier National Park- [Park Home]
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Sophia holds a Bachelor of Science in Digital Communication and Media with a minor in Advertising and Public Relations from West Texas A&M University. She is passionate about expanding her knowledge of nature, conservation, and environmentalism through her upcoming internship experience. In her professional pursuits, she specializes in graphic design, copywriting, and photography. As she anticipates her internship, she is eager to dive into understanding ADA accessibility practices and embracing a variety of storytelling techniques to enhance her skill set.

Evan Cerna
Baylor UniversityWaco Mammoth National Monument- [Park Home]
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Evan Cerna is currently in his final semester at Baylor University in Waco, TX, pursuing a major in Geosciences with a focus on Paleontology/Biogeosciences. During his time at Baylor, Evan has collaborated with undergraduate students on research involving Columbian mammoth (Mammuthus columbi) specimens from the Waco Mammoth National Monument. He is enthusiastic about contributing to the preservation of these ancient giants' remains and supporting ongoing research at the site. Evan is eager to establish a professional career in vertebrate paleontology and has aspirations of pursuing a Ph.D. soon. His enduring love for vertebrate paleontology, cultivated since childhood by visits to natural history museums across Texas like the Witte Museum in San Antonio and the Houston Museum of Natural Science, drives his ambition. With a profound passion for the field and a dedication to preserving natural sciences, Evan believes that his role as a Paleontology Assistant at the Waco Mammoth National Monument will offer invaluable experience in vertebrate paleontology. It is a realization of his lifelong aspiration to work with the remains of the colossal creatures that once roamed Texas.

Anita Garg
Stanford UniversityYosemite National Park - [Park Home]
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Anita Garg is currently pursuing a master's degree in Management Science and Engineering (MS&E) at Stanford University, having previously earned her bachelor's degree in the same field from the institution. Passionate about the outdoors, Anita has a strong background in environmental research, specifically in restoring native coastal sage scrub in southern California. Her interests lie in ecology and conservation, with a desire to collaborate with the National Park Service. Looking ahead, she envisions further academic pursuits and a career focused on environmental science and conservation.

Vincent Hart
Southeastern Louisiana UniversityShenendoah National Park - [Park Home]
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Vincent's roots in Louisiana deeply influence his love for coastal and estuarine science. A pivotal moment for Vincent was when a teacher revealed how Louisiana loses wetlands at an alarming rate – approximately a football field every 100 minutes. This revelation ignited his passion for understanding nature's conservation. His studies unveiled the invaluable roles natural environments play locally and globally, serving as carbon sinks, habitats, food sources, and more critically, as shields against storm surges. Vincent's undergraduate journey heightened his awareness of the adverse impacts of runoff, dredging, and coastal development on these ecosystems. Driven to effect change, he embarked on a Master's degree, focusing his research on restoring submerged aquatic vegetation in the Pontchartrain Estuary of Louisiana. His goal is to contribute to the preservation of crucial coastal and estuarine elements while pursuing a career in conservation. In his conservation work, Vincent notices a lack of African American representation, hindering his ability to connect with mentors and peers due to cultural disparities. Despite feeling like an outsider at times, Vincent draws hope from initiatives like Mosaics in Science. This program actively promotes diversity in conservation, breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds.

Amanda Hernandez
New York UniversityDeath Valley National Park- [Park Home]
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Amanda Hernandez is on track to complete her Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a concentration in Ecology in May 2024. With a strong love for the outdoors passed down by her family, she has treasured nature since childhood. Her enchantment with the plant kingdom springs from its limitless diversity, resilience, and crucial role in various ecosystems. Amanda's passion for ecology blossomed through hands-on field courses and mentorship from passionate professors who share her zeal for the subject. These experiences sparked her ambition to pursue a career as a Natural Resource Manager/Field Biologist. As a first-generation Hispanic American, she initially hesitated to enter a field that might lack diversity and inclusivity. However, her discovery of the Mosaics in Science Internship program presented the ideal opportunity to gain field experience while advocating for greater diversity in natural resource professions. During this internship, Amanda wants to improve her field research and wilderness skills, enhance her botanical expertise, and boost her confidence. She plans to leverage this experience for a Master's in Natural Resource Management, with the goal of a research career culminating in a Ph.D. or a role as a Field Biologist/Natural Resource Manager in the National Parks system.

Gavin Healy
University of California BerkeleyGolden Gate National Recreation Area - [Park Home]
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Gavin is from Roseville, a suburb in the Sacramento Valley near the diverse landscapes of Northern California. His academic path began at Sierra College, where he explored Political Science and Natural Sciences, inspired by his influential high school experiences and outdoor adventures. With two associate degrees, he entered UC Berkeley, majoring in political science and specializing in conservation and resource studies. His studies spanned political and identity politics, geography, microbiology, ecology, and more, focusing on public understanding of climate change. Driven by his interest in framing and communication's role in addressing climate change, he joined a science communication team in the Bay Area. Committed to making climate impacts understandable and actionable, he wants to drive positive changes in voting and consumption patterns. While considering future paths like climate journalism or advocacy, communication and research will remain central. The internship allows him to hone these skills while immersed in California’s natural beauty.

Ray Jalpert
University of MaineCuyahoga Valley National Park - [Park Home]
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Ray earned a degree in Wildlife Ecology with a focus on wildlife science and management from the University of Maine, driven by a passion to enhance diversity in STEM. Despite growing up and studying in predominantly white environments, Ray hoped for more diversity in their field post-graduation. However, job hunting was clouded by safety concerns as a person of color, pushing them to seek inclusive workplaces. This journey inspired Ray's current goal: to create or partner with a non-profit providing natural resource opportunities to underserved communities locally. Their current internship resonates with this goal, allowing them to nurture their love for teaching and community involvement in science. They also aspire to become a Master Bird Bander. While Ray's interests span acoustic ecology, data science, and improving access for underserved groups, pinpointing a focus is challenging due to the wealth of experiences available. Nevertheless, they embrace their career journey with a thirst for knowledge and exploration in their field.

Alison Munaylla-Bohoquez
Marymount UniversityMount Rainier National Park - [Park Home]
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Alison holds a bachelor's degree in biology with a specialization in sustainability. Her professional passion lies in uncovering the ecological impacts of fungi to aid in preserving wooded ecosystems. Post-graduation, she hopes to improve her research skills and pursue a doctorate in fungal plant pathology or entomopathogenic fungi. Alison's commitment to conservation comes from observing environmental issues in Peru and disparities upon relocating to the US. Participating in programs like the American Conservation Experience and Youth Conservation Corps in 2019, Alison forged connections with environmental organizations. Despite initial doubts, these experiences fueled her interest in a conservation career as a first-generation immigrant. In 2022, Alison joined UC Santa Cruz's Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program, where she discovered her passion for mycology. Her work in the CLIMUSH project at the University of Oregon and with the USDA focused on fungal responses to climate change and plant sample diagnosis. Despite challenges as a first-generation student, Alison's mycology passion thrives. Programs like EFTA, supporting students of color in conservation, inspire her to advocate for inclusivity. Through EFTA, she aims to empower other students of color in conservation efforts, confident in the support to excel in education, participation, and protection.

Tonya Messam
Ohio State UniversityRocky Mountain National Park - [Park Home]
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Tonya is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, specializing in Ecological Restoration. Originally from the East side of Cleveland, Ohio, Tonya's interest in environmental conservation was ignited by their mother, who instilled a deep love for nature by exploring green spaces in the city. Tonya's dream is to turn her passion into a career through more education. Dedicated to advancing ecological restoration and sustainable practices, she aims to expand her GIS expertise for better visitor experiences at Rocky Mountain National Park. Tonya has explored Animal Science, Urban Farming, Environmental Education, Equine Management, Water Science, Restoration, Non-profit Management, and Sustainability on their academic journey. These varied experiences have provided foundational skills for each new role. Drawing from a diverse academic background, Tonya is dedicated to furthering Rocky Mountain National Park's mission of preserving the ecosystem in the southern Rocky Mountains. She seeks to champion initiatives like the Mosaics in Science Diversity Internship Program to raise awareness. Beyond graduation, Tonya aspires to take on roles as an Ecological Restoration Specialist or Environmental Consultant, actively contributing to large-scale environmental conservation and restoration endeavors. In the future, Tonya plans to create a nonprofit that links urban areas with nature, cultivating a stronger love for outdoor spaces and promoting sustainable living. This journey reflects a devotion to constant growth and a strong dedication to environmental stewardship, with the goal of making a lasting impact in ecological restoration and more.

Jacque McKay
California State University Monterey Bay
Lassen Volcanic National Park - [Park Home]
Jacque, a first-generation university graduate from California State University Monterey Bay, holds a BS in Marine Science and hopes to pursue a career in wildlife biology. Their passion is community conservation and promoting diversity in science. They strongly advocate for involving all communities in protecting natural and public lands. Jacque enthusiastically seeks to join a network that nurtures connections between communities and the natural sciences.
Kta'n Paul
Sandwich High SchoolCape Cod National Seashore, Northeast Coastal and Barrier Network [CACO Park Home] [NCBN Park Home]
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Kta'n, a dedicated environmentalist, is deeply involved in the conservation and restoration efforts of eelgrass in the picturesque bays of Cape Cod. His passion for this cause stems from a desire to aid the National Seashore in unraveling the mysteries behind the decline of eelgrass. Through this program, his goal is to not only revitalize eelgrass in the Seashore but also broaden his influence to multiple locations throughout the breathtaking expanse of Cape Cod.

Alexis Rodriguez
University of South CarolinaCongaree National Park - [Park Home]
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Alexis, a recent graduate from the University of South Carolina, earned a B.S. in Environmental Science with distinction, recognized for research leadership. During an undergraduate lab course, Alexis visited Congaree National Park, where they saw synchronous fireflies and studied the impact of sunscreen oxybenzone on phytoplankton physiology. This marked their entry into environmental research. The study of phytoplankton clarified Alexis's career aspirations, focusing on fieldwork techniques and organisms. Motivated by this, Alexis actively sought ways to contribute to conservation efforts. Post-graduation, they found Environment for the Americas, attracted by its mission to inspire a diverse conservation community. The opportunity to merge conservation passion with a diverse work environment was irresistible. Participation in this program aligns Alexis's personal and career goals, providing practical experience and serving as a foundation for future endeavors. Alexis plans to pursue a master’s degree in fish and wildlife conservation, concentrating on environmental toxicology. Their goal is to study the impact of human-induced chemicals and nutrients on marine and wildlife organisms. They also aim to secure a position with respected organizations like the National Park Service or the Environmental Protection Agency.

Gabriella Silva
Western Connecticut State UniversityYosemite National Park - [Park Home]
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Gabriella recently graduated from Western Connecticut State University, where they excelled in their Biology major. Driven by a deep passion for unraveling the complexities of life, they eagerly seek to further explore the realm of biological sciences. Their pursuit of advanced education in graduate school is motivated by a thirst to study a wide array of species and develop a broad set of technical skills. They envision this internship as a transformative opportunity for personal and professional development.

Pranneil Thankavel
University of WisconsinBoston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area - [Park Home]
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Pranneil Thankavel is a conservation biology student at the University of Wisconsin, also holding a certificate in global health. The Mosaics program resonates with their dual interests in conservation and community health. Pranneil is enthusiastic about enhancing human lives and the planet's well-being. They are particularly excited about exploring the rich history, scenic beauty, and diverse ecosystem of the Boston coast. Professionally, Pranneil hopes to motivate individuals to contribute to the restoration of nature and themselves.

Kiran Topiwala
Emory UniversityLyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park - [Park Home]
Kiran has a BS in Industrial and Systems Engineering and a Masters in Development Practice from Emory University. He is an artist, a designer of regeneration, and a seeker of the right way to be humans together on Earth. He spends his time meditating, making breakfast tacos, and taking photos.

Jeremiah Wright
Texas A&M UniversityBig Bend National Park- [Park Home]
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Jeremiah is a fourth-year undergraduate student at Texas A&M University pursuing a B.S. in wildlife and fisheries science. He loves the natural world and has a special interest in birds and bats. He is a second-year Mosaics intern and in the future hopes to be involved in research on bat morphology or foraging habits
Last updated: January 6, 2025