Field Notes: Q&A with Urban NEST Intern Nigah Raja

Nigah Raja is a Summer 2026 CUNY intern working on the Natural and Nature-Based Features (NNBF) data analysis project. She recently graduated in May 2026 from The City College of New York with a degree in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. 

Read below to get to know more about Nigah and what she’s been up to at the NAC! 

What motivated you to pursue an internship with the NAC? 

NR: What drew me to the NAC was its belief that nature conservation isn’t just about protecting ecosystems, it’s also about creating places where people feel connected to nature. I wanted to be part of an organization that combines science, stewardship, and community engagement to make New York City’s green and blue spaces healthier and more accessible.

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

NR: I’m working on a project that analyzes monitoring data from natural and nature-based shoreline sites along the Harlem and Bronx Rivers. What drew me to it was the chance to utilize the data analysis skills that I learned in my coursework and apply them to environmental restoration projects occurring in the real world. I’m excited to be working on a project that supports both ecological health and the surrounding communities.

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

NR: The most valuable lesson I’ve learned so far during my time with the NAC is that strong collaboration is key for successful conservation. A shoreline restoration project requires listening to community members, collaborating with different organizations, and understanding the goals of the people who care for these spaces. It’s amazing to see different teams come together to tackle environmental issues that matter to us all.

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

NR: One of my favorite NYC natural areas to visit is Canarsie Park. I enjoy hiking by the wetlands, bird watching, and just taking it slow. Canarsie Park strikes a beautiful balance between being a vibrant community space and a peaceful natural escape. 

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

NR: For New Yorkers who want to get more involved in conservation efforts, I would advise them to visit their nearest park and get to know the space. Be curious about what you observe and join volunteering events where you can put your ideas into action. The more connected you feel to these spaces, the more you’ll want to help care for them.

What’s your next step after this internship? 

NR: I recently graduated with a degree in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, so I’m excited to continue building a career in environmental science. I’m hoping to work in a role that combines laboratory research, data analysis, and conservation.

I look forward to continue working with green and blue spaces and making them more accessible in an urban environment through education and outreach.

What originally interested you in nature conservation and working to improve our natural areas? 

NR: What first motivated me to work in nature conservation was my own experience growing up around New York City’s parks. They gave me a place to celebrate family gatherings, ride my bike, spend time with friends, and have quiet moments to think. Having access to those spaces, and feeling safe and welcome enough to actually use them, shaped how I see the importance of urban nature. That inspired me to help protect and restore these spaces so that future generations can enjoy and benefit from them as much as we do. 

Are there any important facts you think New Yorkers should know next time they are out in the urban natural areas, or any natural spaces? 

NR: Urban natural areas provide several benefits, such as habitat for wildlife, improved water quality, reduced flooding, and increased neighborhood resilience to climate change. When visiting these spaces, be considerate and respectful of wildlife, stay on designated trails, and leave no trace of litter behind.

Are there any particular causes within nature conservation that you’d personally like to contribute more to in the future? 

NR: I’m fascinated by both the history of our planet and the ecosystems we have today. In the future, I’d love to contribute to work that helps protect biodiversity while continuing to learn more about Earth’s history, because I think understanding where ecosystems came from can help us make better decisions about how to protect them going forward.

What ways do you hope people beyond just New Yorkers will change how  they interact with and relate to nature? 

NR: I hope people begin to see nature as something we interact with every day, not just when we visit a national park or go on vacation. Nature doesn’t have to be somewhere far away to be meaningful. Sometimes all it takes is sitting by the water, walking through a park after a long day, or noticing the wildlife in your own neighborhood to build a stronger connection with the world around you.

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The Urban NEST internship program is made possible through the generous support of the Leon Levy Foundation.