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Nina
Student
Long Beach, California
1
Question
Asked
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Recommended environmental science related volunteer opportunities ?
Hi! I am a sophomore in high school, and I'm starting to think more about college and what I can do to increase my chances of getting into a college of my choosing. I'm currently taking AP Environmental Science, and I'm interested in entomology and other nature related subjects. I've done some beach clean-ups and volunteer work at nature centers, but I feel like I could do more. I was wondering what environment/nature related volunteer opportunities would be a good idea?
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3 answers
Kyle Ali
Marine Biologist
3
Answers
Belize City, Belize District, Belize
Updated
Kyle’s Answer
Hey Nina, since you participate in beach clean-ups and volunteer at a nature center, you can further enhance your skills by engaging in more focused activities like using citizen science platforms such as iNaturalist, Bumble Bee Watch, or eBird, which focus on monitoring insect and wildlife populations. Working at wildlife refuges, nature reserves, or even state parks can give you valuable experience with wildlife conservation and habitat restoration. If you are looking into getting involved in research, reach out to some university labs that focus on entomology or environmental science. Some of them may have high school internships or summer programs available. You can also participate in the removal of invasive species, water quality monitoring, or community gardening to support the local ecosystem. Many zoos, aquariums, and environmental organizations have volunteer programs that allow you to engage with the public and teach them about wildlife conservation!
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1212
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Nina! 🌱
First off, I love that you’re thinking ahead about college AND working with nature! Being passionate about environmental science *and* entomology? You’re basically a superhero in the making—saving the planet *one bug at a time* (I’m picturing a cape, tbh). 🦸♀️🦗
Since you’ve already done beach clean-ups and worked at nature centers, you’re off to a great start! But let’s *level up* your nature volunteering game with a few suggestions that might give you a little more experience AND boost that college application:
### 1. **Citizen Science Projects**
These are cool because you can collect data in real time and contribute to important environmental research. Websites like **SciStarter** and **Zooniverse** have a ton of projects where you can monitor wildlife, track insects, or gather data on biodiversity. Plus, you can do it virtually! *Bonus points for making science look like an adventure.* 🧑🔬
### 2. **Local Nature Reserves & Wildlife Sanctuaries**
Reach out to nearby wildlife reserves or sanctuaries and ask if they need help with anything like monitoring species, invasive plant removal, or assisting with educational programs. They often need passionate volunteers, and it’s a fantastic way to get hands-on experience.
### 3. **Environmental Advocacy & Activism**
Want to add a little more *spice* to your resume? Get involved with environmental advocacy groups! Organizations like **Sierra Club** or **350.org** love having younger voices speak out for the planet. You can organize campaigns, create educational content, or even join local protests (in a responsible, peaceful way, of course). Plus, you’ll be able to show colleges that you’re not just about *bugs*—you care about the whole ecosystem! 🌍
### 4. **Botanical Gardens or Entomology Labs**
Since you’re into entomology, check out nearby **botanical gardens** or **entomology labs**—they often need volunteers to help with research or public programs. You can even try your hand at helping with an insect exhibit or education programs. How cool would it be to share your passion for bugs with kids? 🐛
### 5. **Stream or River Clean-Ups**
If you love hands-on volunteering, this one’s for you! Stream or river clean-ups are a great way to get involved and make a big difference for local ecosystems. Plus, they often take place in pretty scenic areas, so it’s like working and getting nature therapy at the same time. 🌊
### 6. **Internships with Environmental Nonprofits**
Look for internships with nonprofits that focus on environmental conservation. Interning is a great way to get deeper into environmental science—whether it’s fieldwork or helping with research, you’ll gain skills that will set you apart when it comes to college apps. Look for places like **The Nature Conservancy** or **The Environmental Defense Fund** for opportunities.
### **Pro Tip:** Stay active on social media! Many environmental groups and nonprofits post volunteering opportunities on their social accounts. Plus, it’s a good way to stay connected with others who share your passion! 📱🌿
No matter what you pick, remember—this is about **building experience, making an impact, and showing the world how amazing your skills and passions are**. Oh, and having fun while doing it. 😄
Good luck with your environmental awesomeness, and remember—no one said saving the world couldn’t be a little fun! 💚🌎
First off, I love that you’re thinking ahead about college AND working with nature! Being passionate about environmental science *and* entomology? You’re basically a superhero in the making—saving the planet *one bug at a time* (I’m picturing a cape, tbh). 🦸♀️🦗
Since you’ve already done beach clean-ups and worked at nature centers, you’re off to a great start! But let’s *level up* your nature volunteering game with a few suggestions that might give you a little more experience AND boost that college application:
### 1. **Citizen Science Projects**
These are cool because you can collect data in real time and contribute to important environmental research. Websites like **SciStarter** and **Zooniverse** have a ton of projects where you can monitor wildlife, track insects, or gather data on biodiversity. Plus, you can do it virtually! *Bonus points for making science look like an adventure.* 🧑🔬
### 2. **Local Nature Reserves & Wildlife Sanctuaries**
Reach out to nearby wildlife reserves or sanctuaries and ask if they need help with anything like monitoring species, invasive plant removal, or assisting with educational programs. They often need passionate volunteers, and it’s a fantastic way to get hands-on experience.
### 3. **Environmental Advocacy & Activism**
Want to add a little more *spice* to your resume? Get involved with environmental advocacy groups! Organizations like **Sierra Club** or **350.org** love having younger voices speak out for the planet. You can organize campaigns, create educational content, or even join local protests (in a responsible, peaceful way, of course). Plus, you’ll be able to show colleges that you’re not just about *bugs*—you care about the whole ecosystem! 🌍
### 4. **Botanical Gardens or Entomology Labs**
Since you’re into entomology, check out nearby **botanical gardens** or **entomology labs**—they often need volunteers to help with research or public programs. You can even try your hand at helping with an insect exhibit or education programs. How cool would it be to share your passion for bugs with kids? 🐛
### 5. **Stream or River Clean-Ups**
If you love hands-on volunteering, this one’s for you! Stream or river clean-ups are a great way to get involved and make a big difference for local ecosystems. Plus, they often take place in pretty scenic areas, so it’s like working and getting nature therapy at the same time. 🌊
### 6. **Internships with Environmental Nonprofits**
Look for internships with nonprofits that focus on environmental conservation. Interning is a great way to get deeper into environmental science—whether it’s fieldwork or helping with research, you’ll gain skills that will set you apart when it comes to college apps. Look for places like **The Nature Conservancy** or **The Environmental Defense Fund** for opportunities.
### **Pro Tip:** Stay active on social media! Many environmental groups and nonprofits post volunteering opportunities on their social accounts. Plus, it’s a good way to stay connected with others who share your passion! 📱🌿
No matter what you pick, remember—this is about **building experience, making an impact, and showing the world how amazing your skills and passions are**. Oh, and having fun while doing it. 😄
Good luck with your environmental awesomeness, and remember—no one said saving the world couldn’t be a little fun! 💚🌎
Karin P.
Lecturer, Student Advisor
454
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Nina,
The Los Angeles fires are a disaster not only for humans but for the environment as well, and the effects will be felt for a long time. I would use this "opportunity" to step up and get involved in some aspect of research/analysis and clean-up.
Some organizations to check out:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/angeles/workingtogether/volunteering/?cid=fseprd580104
https://www.thrillist.com/lifestyle/los-angeles/volunteer-opportunities-los-angeles-california
https://www.patagonia.com/actionworks/explore-opportunities/california/los-angeles/explore/all
https://www.sierraclub.org/angeles/volunteer
https://www.californiavolunteers.ca.gov/
https://letsvolunteerla.org/
https://volunteer.ucla.edu/environment
There is also a large research study under way (link below). I wonder if you could get involved for a science fair project mentored by a researcher.
I hope this helps a bit! You'll have to look through opportunities to find something you are interested in.
Good luck!
KP
https://environmentamerica.org/california/articles/wildfires-in-los-angeles-impacts-on-wildlife-and-ocean-ecosystems/
https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/long-term-multi-institutional-study-on-health-impacts-of-los-angeles-wildfires-launched/
The Los Angeles fires are a disaster not only for humans but for the environment as well, and the effects will be felt for a long time. I would use this "opportunity" to step up and get involved in some aspect of research/analysis and clean-up.
Some organizations to check out:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/angeles/workingtogether/volunteering/?cid=fseprd580104
https://www.thrillist.com/lifestyle/los-angeles/volunteer-opportunities-los-angeles-california
https://www.patagonia.com/actionworks/explore-opportunities/california/los-angeles/explore/all
https://www.sierraclub.org/angeles/volunteer
https://www.californiavolunteers.ca.gov/
https://letsvolunteerla.org/
https://volunteer.ucla.edu/environment
There is also a large research study under way (link below). I wonder if you could get involved for a science fair project mentored by a researcher.
I hope this helps a bit! You'll have to look through opportunities to find something you are interested in.
Good luck!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps: