In 2024, we launched a program for advanced CUNY students eager to gain more hands-on experience in natural resource management and to turbo charge their careers.
Urban NEST year-long fellowship program
Kickstarting environmental careers
The year-long Urban, Nature, Ecology, Stewardship Training (Urban NEST) fellowship allows students to specialize in research or field work, and to pursue additional training and certifications that will make them more competitive to employers in the green sector.
What makes this program unique is its long-term cohort model, which trains passionate students for local jobs soon after they graduate from a CUNY school.
Applications for the 2026/2027 fellowship cohort are now open!
Apply before March 27, 2026.
Apply Today(this link opens in new window)
What can fellows expect?
- Complete 800 hours of technical training and project work experience in natural resources management including data collection, urban ecology surveying, plant identification, trail navigation, and community engagement
- Participate in lectures facilitated by practitioners in the environmental field focused on introduction to urban ecology, environmental justice, environmental policy and regulation, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Engage in professional development sessions focused on program success, career discernment, and job search skills
- Take ownership of a long-term project that matches fellows with a dedicated initiative based on their career interests
- Attend group stewardship events citywide that serve as professional networking and volunteering opportunities
- Receive mentorship from professionals from organizations like the Natural Areas Conservancy, the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation, local park conservancies, city environmental organizations, and the NAC Alumni Network of past program participants
- Earn valuable certifications in first aid/CPR, GIS, and stewardship
- Gain membership to the vast NAC Alumni Network
Who's eligible?
Current CUNY students (undergraduates, graduate, and students pursuing certifications) who are upperclassmen (juniors and seniors and established graduate students)
Students with degrees related to the field of environmental management and its interdisciplinary nature (e.g. Biology, Environmental Sciences, Urban Sustainability, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Engineering, Science Engagement, etc.)
Individuals with a passion for studying and interest in improving local ecosystems as demonstrated through coursework, volunteering, and past experiences with a goal of seeking employment post program
Young people committed to working collaboratively, sharing knowledge, and actively participating in the program
Participants who can maintain a positive, collaborative attitude during hot (and probably buggy) days in NYC’s forests, wetlands, and on trails
Fellowship timeline
Mid February to mid March
- Application window opens for fall cohort
- Virtual info sessions occur
Mid March to early April
- Applications are reviewed and interviews take place
Early April
- Offers to final applicants are extended
Late September to early October
- Fellowship begins at part-time schedule (14 hrs/week)
Mid May
- Part-time schedule ends
Late June to mid August
- Full-time schedule begins for summer (35 hrs/week for eight weeks)
Stay connected
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