Field Notes: Q&A with Intern Gretchen Begley

Gretchen is a CUNY intern working on the Jamaica Bay Seed Increase and Restoration project in Floyd Bennett Field. She is studying Environmental Science at LaGuardia Community College and recently graduated with a Certificate in Native Plant Studies from the Native Plant Trust. She is interested in plant ecology, urban ecology, conservation, and ecological restoration. Gretchen has a background in human rights and social work, as well as some experience in horticulture. Read on below to get to know Gretchen!

What motivated you to pursue an internship with the NAC?

GB: I love spending time in New York City’s natural areas, and I hope to build a career working to protect and restore them. I’m specifically interested in plant ecology, urban ecology, coastal ecology, and the combination of all three! NAC seemed like the perfect place to gain experience and find mentorship in these areas. 

Can you tell us more about the specific project you’re working on and what drew you to it?

GB: I’m working on the Jamaica Bay Seed Increase and Restoration Project, which is a project that combines all of my areas of interest! The project is a partnership with Greenbelt Native Plant Center of NYC Parks. I have the opportunity to grow coastal native plants for seed which will then be used in ecological restoration work across the city. I’ve also been able to do some wild seed collection as well as work on different restoration projects around Jamaica Bay.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned so far during your time with the NAC?

GB: I’ve been learning so much! I can mention two very valuable things—one is building connections with all of the incredible people that I’ve met as a part of this internship, and the other is that I’m getting a clearer idea of what I don’t know, and the things I want to learn more about.

Do you have a favorite spot in NYC’s natural areas that you love to visit?

GB: One of my favorite natural areas in NYC is Hunter Island, which is part of Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx. It has a beautiful combination of forest, salt marsh, and rocky coastline.

What advice would you give to New Yorkers who want to get more involved in conservation efforts?

GB: Think about what aspect of conservation is most interesting and/or most important to you, and then find the NYC organizations that are working on that issue. There are so many different types of conservation work happening in the city. You can get connected by attending a volunteer event.

What’s your next step after this internship?

GB: I would like to work in the areas of ecological monitoring, ecological restoration, and conservation within New York City. I will complete my AS in Environmental Science, and I hope to continue my studies in the field of ecology.

Learn more about NAC’s internship programs.

New here? Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on internships, events, and the NAC’s research.