Ashlee Streete hiking the Briarcliff-Peekskill Trailway.
Author: Ashlee Streete
Fall 2024 Sustainability Team Cohort
Major: Environmental Studies
Graduation Date: Class of 2026
As my first-ever internship, this was the right choice for me! Since I had little to no experience going in, I was worried that I wouldn’t have much to offer. I also felt somewhat alienated from the Purchase community since I commute and don’t dorm on campus. However, working with Dr. Jackson and the sustainability team has made me realize I have a place in the community and can contribute to a greater cause.
I worked with two other interns to restore the Blind Brook Forest plot to its previous conditions before the disturbance. I also contributed to two Spotted Lanternfly-focused projects where I helped a student collect data for his senior project and made an informational Story Map that pairs with the circle traps found on trees around campus. This internship was challenging but very rewarding for me. I’ve made many new friends and developed numerous professional and personal skills. Working as an Invasive Species intern has been a pleasure and has given me a possible path to pursue for my future career.
