Underrepresented youth experience barriers prior to field experiences

Environment for the Americas has developed a model internship program that helps to recruit diverse youth for internship positions on federal lands and with non-governmental organizations. To improve the program, we have conducted almost a decade of surveys to examine the barriers diverse youth may face when applying for these positions and working at sites where staff, visitors, and other interns may be predominantly White. Our model has been very successful in addressing barriers, including those presented by Bowser and Sid. Survey responses show that issues of connection, confidence, comfort, and capability can be addressed through considerations of culture, staff awareness of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, training, communication, and mentorship.