08 Aug Adios, Nebraska

It’s hard to believe that time has gone that fast, but today was officially my last shift as the Latino Heritage Intern at Homestead National Monument of America. It was an exciting journey, and I am glad I was able to share my experiences through this blog.

Two months ago I arrived on this prairie from the deserts of Southern Arizona, bright-eyed and eager to learn about the National Park Service. While it took some time to get used to the humidity, I came to appreciate the story being told at this park. I also learned much about what it means to work for the federal government, and I hope one day I get that opportunity.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank everyone here at Homestead who made my stay so welcoming. Thank you to the park’s Superintendent, Mark Engler, and the Chief of Interpretation, Susan Cook, for welcoming me to their park and for giving me the wonderful opportunity to work here. I also want to thank them for letting me room in one of the park’s houses. Additional thankyous go to Robert, the park historian, and Amy, the museum technician, for assisting me on the oral history project and the Arizona Homesteaders research project. My thanks to Jesse, the Chief of Natural Resources, for always lending a hand when I needed help. Thanks to the park rangers Will, Hunter, and Charlotte for showing me how to interact with visitors and answer questions. Thank you to Sean from maintenance for taking us to all the best restaurants. Finally, thank you to my fellow interns and roommates, Josh and McKenzie, for splitting the Freeman School with me and driving me around town.

Most of all, I want to thank the Latino Heritage Internship Program and Environment for the Americas, without whom this internship would not have been possible. Thank you for the amazing experience.