25 Jul ¡Solo dos semanas más!

     How did the time go by so fast? Two months ago, I arrived in the city of Frederick, in Maryland, alone and full of doubt. Today, I feel none of those things. As my journey has passed, my mind has been exploring new facets, places, and knowledge. Being a Latino Heritage Internship Program (LHIP) intern has been the perfect opportunity to grow personally and professionally.

Me at Best Farm in Monocacy National Battlefield

     When I received Daniela Garcia’s email about my acceptance, I remember I was getting off my Biology class. The emotion was so big, yet so new. It feels like it was yesterday. As I have said in previous blog posts, this is the first time I have been out of Puerto Rico alone for more than two weeks. Nonetheless, and after all that I have experienced, I am no longer attached to the fear of leaving. In fact, this experience has prompted me to keep looking for new things to discover.

Me giving Tree ID tips to YCC interns

                LCW poster made by me

     It is hard to say my favorite part of the internship because everything that has happened has built the experience. But, if I had to choose, I would say having the opportunity to meet new people. Every person I have met in Monocacy National Battlefield has taught me something. Another thing I like is sharing my knowledge. Last week, I had the opportunity to lead a group of YCC interns through the forest and teach them about ecology, invasive species, and how to identify different tree species. I enjoy learning but teaching what I know to others is unmatched! I believe that is what makes experiences like this one so special.

Only two weeks left for this experience to terminate. Despite that, I’m going home with a backpack full of memories I will cherish forever.

     Jumping onto other topics, this week we celebrate Latino Conservation Week (LCW), an initiative from the Hispanic Access Foundation and a great opportunity for Latinxs to shine a spotlight on the role of conservation. As a Latina, I am proud to celebrate my heritage and share it with others. This week provides an opportunity for the Latino community (and everybody else) to do so! Don’t forget to explore parks with Latino Heritage while responsibly taking care of them. 

¡Feliz Semana de la Conservación Latina!