1) Where is home for you, Rebekah?

I grew up here in North Carolina. I have always been fond of this state and all it has to offer: lively and diverse culture, natural surroundings that range from the mountains to the coast, wonderful universities and, of course, great sports and rivalries. I am proud to call North Carolina home.

2) Where are you on your higher education path?

I just graduated from NC State University with a B.S. in Environmental Sciences with a focus in Economics and Policy. This fall, I will be attending the Nicholas School at Duke University for a Masters of Environmental Management with a concentration in Environmental Economics and Policy.

3) Why did you choose to work in the environmental field?

I have known that I wanted to work in the environmental field since my high school AP Environmental Science class. I became so intrigued by how complicated environmental issues were because of all of the economic, social, and scientific factors involved. There is so much potential to do “good” in the environmental field. The more I dove into it, the more I loved it. I am excited to spend my career trying to find ways to bridge gaps between human prosperity and environmental health, and working to preserve the finite resources we do have for future generations to come.

4) What are some of your fondest memories of being out in North Carolina’s natural wonders?

I grew up in a family that was always doing something outdoors, whether it was riding horses on a local trail or fishing in the lake down the street. I try to get up to the mountains at least once a year. I love hiking with the dogs, kayaking in the rivers, and visiting all of the state parks. I recently went on my first “expert-level” mountain bike expedition, which was the most physically challenging thing I think I have ever done, but it was so rewarding when I made it over the mountain!

Growing up, my family took an annual trip to the NC coast. When we could, my dad and I would take a ferry over to Bear Island and camp for a few days. I loved camping on the beach because everything was so peaceful and serene. I could walk out onto the sandbar after a storm and pick up two or three sand dollars that were floating in the tide. I love being outside in these environments because it helps me reflect and recharge, that is until I get really sunburned…

5) What will your internship responsibilities be this summer with the NC League of Conservation Voters (NCLCV)?

I will be heavily involved in the policy arena. I will work closely with Dan Crawford, the Director of Governmental Relations. I will track the policy process, attend session and committee meetings, analyze public policy, collaborate with NCLCV and other environmental groups to create strategies, produce the weekly HotList, and generate this year’s Scorecard that will show what scores North Carolina legislators earn based on their environmental voting record.

6) How do you see this opportunity as a Stanback intern affecting your future education and work?

I am honored to be a part of the Stanback internship program, and I look forward to all of the experiences I will gain this summer. The ideal way for me to spend a summer is doing something I love while also challenging myself to be better. Being a Stanback intern allows me to do both. I hope to return to school with a more real and deeper understanding of the NC legislative process, which will be great experience to pull from in future classes and projects.

If you are interested to learn more about what Rebekah is working on this summer, please contact her at rebekah@nclcv.org