26 Jun DC: Initials Representing the District of Columbia…and Me!

Quick explanation for the title—my initials “DC” are the same as the abbreviation for the District of Columbia!

The first few weeks of my internship have been a thrill! During my walk to and from the Main Interior Building (MIB) each morning, I reflect on how fortunate I am to be in a position to represent my Latino culture, the Latino Heritage Internship Program (LHIP), and the National Park Service (NPS) overall. I also keep the broad perspective that although I grew up in a big city and I am currently residing in another one, part of my job is to write communications products that are applicable far and wide, even in the most remote NPS units. It is an exciting challenge that I embrace.

Discussing the workplan in the daily morning meeting.

I identify as Colombian American, and I was raised speaking Spanish at home in a neighborhood and in a metropolitan area where English is most common. The coexistence of languages and cultures is a great influence on my appreciation for people of diverse backgrounds, and I hope that shines through in my work. Additionally, the internship in the NPS Office of Communications is an opportunity to channel my passion for the outdoors in a professional setting. My lifelong journey as a caretaker of natural resources began as a Cub and Boy Scout, and I want to encourage others to be active environmental stewards from a young age as well.

Drafting the communications rollout plan for Latino Conservation Week, taking place this year from July 16 through July 24.

Aside from my regular duties, there are sometimes special events that happen at the MIB. In early June, I met most of the astronauts who flew to the International Space Station (ISS) on the SpaceX Crew-2 mission. The astronauts visited the MIB to share stories about the photographs of national parks that they took from outer space while living on the ISS. They were in space for over six months, launching in April 2021 and returning in November 2021.

Meeting most of the crew of SpaceX Crew-2. From left to right: NASA astronaut Shane Kimbrough, me, JAXA astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, and NASA astronaut Megan McArthur.

More blog posts to come!