Hello! My name is Cheryl (Cher) Aguilar Henriquez. I am a first-year undergraduate student at Saint Martin’s University, majoring in Environmental Science. I have been an intern for the Nisqually Land Trust since early January. I applied for this internship because I was sure that a hands-on experience in the field would give me a good look into a possible career path. I was correct! So far in my internship experience I have been able to plant roses and a multitude of tree species, prepare plants for planting, remove invasive plant species, and partake in several ASMs (Annual Site Monitoring).
Throughout my internship I have been accompanied by Courtney and Ian. They have been very helpful with my inexperience by thoroughly explaining tasks and tool use. Along with this they make sure to educate me in the reasoning for the tasks. I am also fortunate that they share their wisdom and knowledge on the natural world! On ASMs they point out plants and trees as well as their identifiers and other facts about their history.
This internship has been amazing in educating me in restoration and stewardship. I have seen so many beautiful sites and along with it have learned much about their animal and plant inhabitants. I am fortunate to be having this experience and am thankful for the opportunity. I have also been able to learn more about the entire processes of what goes into a non-profit and non-profit work as a career by attending a staff meeting. This was very exciting as it gave me the opportunity to learn more about the staff behind the trust as well as hear more about the different goings on within a non-profit.
Thank you Cher! We enjoyed exploring with you and appreciate your can-do spirit.
