Working with Student Interns

Johna Boulafentis

Environmental Outreach Specialist

Nez Perce Tribe

ERWM Air Quality

Projects with interns

• ITEP Student Summer Internship

• Wood Stove Study and Changeout– Funded by Nez Perce Tribe & ITEP Short

Internship Program

• Air Toxics and Health– College intern – 4 high school project leaders

Intern proposal

• Project is appropriate for an intern

• Consider the skills and qualities you are seeking

• Design a detailed project and multiple small tasks

• Clear duties and expected results

• Adequate time to complete project

Professional development

• Continuous Communication– Discuss project, duties, and expected results– Professionalism and confidentiality – Communication

Professional development cont’

• Accountability/Responsibility – Report of activities– Evaluation of work

Professional development cont’

• Participation/Inclusion– Conference calls, meetings, workshops– Sufficient workspace

Beyond the office

• New to your area– Help with housing and arrival logistics– Offer a welcome tour of the area– Introduce to coworkers & other interns– Take to cultural & local events

• Share opportunities– Scholarships, internships, jobs

Lessons Learned

• Exploration of intern’s interests. Can those be included or furthered?

• Be clear how you wish a project to look or indicate that you are open to ideas

• Check-ins are key. Discover progress/ challenges

Thank YOU!

Johna Boulafentis

Environmental Outreach Specialist

ERWM Air Quality

Nez Perce Tribe

johnab@nezperce.org

208-843-7375 ext. 2367