Welcome to the Conservation Science Intensive Application!
Current conservation efforts need more hands, hearts, and minds to address issues at the scales necessary for change, but mainstream conservation efforts have not benefited from ideas generated from diverse worldviews and lived experiences.
CSI brings together youth leaders from across the country to share knowledge of natural history, restoration practices, and environmental stewardship, through hands-on experiences and guided mentorship. Participants venture into coastal habitats in and around Bolinas Lagoon, Point Reyes National Seashore, and Tomales Bay; topics range from intertidal invertebrate diversity and ecology of the region’s marine mammals and migratory bird populations to connectivity of the watershed’s diverse ecosystems. Participants gain knowledge, skills, and field science experience for their resumes or college applications.
During the 5-day, 4-night collaborative expeditionary experience you will meet inspiring leaders with very diverse pathways into the conservation field, develop valuable leadership skills, become more confident in your voice, and build a supportive community of peers. CSI professional mentors are experts in their fields who are eager to share their career pathways and knowledge with a new generation of conservation leaders.
Participants must be entering their junior year of high school, senior year of high school, or first year of college in the Fall of 2024 to qualify.
We do not look for the most experienced candidates, rather the candidates who could get the most out of this experience. Don’t let any concerns about prior experience keep you from applying.
Conservation Science Intensive centers on the feminine, which includes those who are socialized as, or identify with, the terms girl/young woman, as well as those who transcend our inherited gender binaries. Our team is committed to uplifting and being inclusive of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, Queer, Trans, and Gender Non-binary individuals.
This program is for you if:
· You are interested in exploring different areas of conservation
· You are interested in developing your voice as a leader
· You are interested in building meaningful relationships with youth across the country
· You believe in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all
· You value engaging with diverse perspectives
· You are interested in making a positive impact in your community
· You are interested in building skills and comfort in outdoor adventures and field work
Important Dates (all in Pacific Standard Time):
- Application Due on February 23
- Notice of Interview by March 8
- Informal Group Interview Dates: March 14, 4-6pm; March 15, 4-6pm March 16, 10am-12noon
- Notice of Acceptance by April 1
- Introductory Zoom: May 31, 4-6pm
- Program Dates: June 24-28 2024
Cost should not be a deterrent for participation. Full and partial fee waivers, and transportation stipends are available. Applicants who are interested in applying for a fee waiver and/or a transportation stipend should indicate this in their application. The information is completely confidential to the program director, potential participant, and their parents or guardians. Anyone who is accepted into the program and qualifies for scholarships receives them, there is no additional application. Email catie.clune@egret.org if you have any questions.
$1,200 includes programming, rustic overnight accommodations, and food for the week.
We understand that this application is done by writing and is only one form of response and we hope it does not feel like a test. You will not be judged on spelling or grammar. We ask that you do your best to express yourself authentically. If you would prefer to submit responses in a different way, please email Catie Clune catie.clune@egret.org with other suggestions.
