14 Jun Interpretation and Community Outreach at Fire Island National Seashore

“And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.” ― F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby Hello there. My name is Kaileigh Mendoza, and I am from Lindenhurst on Long Island, NY. I am entering my Junior Year at St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue as a Biology major. I plan to later attend medical school to earn my degree to practice as a Pediatrician with a possible concentration in Neurology. Growing up here on Long Island has really left me with the wonderful opportunity to get to visit the surrounding islands, especially the beautiful barrier island known as Fire Island. I grew up spending my weekends and summers visiting all the sites on Fire Island National Seashore, so to have the chance to finally see what happens “behind the scenes”, is a truly an honor and an experience I will never forget. Between school field trips, family vacations and weekend getaways, I have spent more time at Fire Island National Seashore locations than I can count, but I will always have the memories created there. My adventures at Fire Island have always left me in amazement; from the beautiful canopies of trees in the Sunken Forest, to the mysteries the ocean holds down by the Wilderness Visitor’s Center. Every day, there is something new to discover, a new area to explore, and something new to learn. During the summer months, the island really comes alive again; events and activities are filled with curious visitors of all ages, and the beaches overflow with umbrellas and coolers as the community embraces the gorgeous weather. There is an activity for just about everyone, whether they are interested in science, fishing, birdwatching, or just plain want to have a little fun in the sun. Fire Island National Seashore is truly an amazing national treasure that I highly recommend everyone visit at least once in their lifetime. Grab your family, a cooler, and maybe even some hiking boots and head out to one of the breathtaking sites at Fire Island. I guarantee it will be an experience you will never forget!