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.