Where is home for you?
I grew up in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, but I’ve also lived in New York, West Virginia, and China. Home is always anywhere my family is, but right now it’s at Duke University.
Where are you on your higher education path?
I’m a Duke sophomore studying Public Policy and Economics.
Why did you choose to work in the environmental field?
Climate change affects every aspect of our future lives. Before coming to NCLCV, I didn’t understand how urgently we needed to act to protect the environment. The internship was an opportunity to get a look into a critical and growing movement that has particular importance in North Carolina. The issues are far more complex than I expected, but I’m finding more motivation every day to continue.
What are some of your fondest memories of being out in North Carolina’s natural wonders?
I haven’t lived in North Carolina long enough to explore – something I hope to fix this summer – but growing up, my parents always pushed my sister and me to be outdoors as often as possible. As a family, we visited a local lake to boat and took frequent trips to the beautiful Oak Mountain State Park.
When my parents first moved to Alabama, they went to Oak Mountain and found this gorgeous scenic spot above the forest canopy and took (too many) goofy photos of my sister and me there. Ten years later, we set out to find that same spot last summer. I’m still surprised we managed to find it again! Now there are two sets of photos of us, a decade apart, still goofy. Family tradition in the making?
We also went to the Grand Canyon one summer, and it’s an experience I would recommend to anyone. You don’t understand how expansive and beautiful that entire region is until you get to see it in person. I almost got too acquainted when we walked one of the trails (read: I almost fell over the edge, long story) but it’s an incredibly peaceful, affirming place.
What are your internship responsibilities this summer with the NC League of Conservation Voters (NCLCV)?
I’m working with the NCLCV field team! The Field Team does grassroots organizing and community outreach, and I’m helping write a resiliency Toolkit that they’ll use to organize workshops around climate justice. NCLCV also has plans for future projects around offshore drilling and solar jobs that I’m also researching.
How do you see this opportunity as a Stanback intern affecting your future education and work?
It’s been an honor to meet people who are as passionate about the environment as my co-workers and fellow interns. Being a Stanback intern has taught me so much and given me a greater appreciation for the work that everyone at NCLCV throws themselves into every day. I hope I can continue my education on environmental issues and use that knowledge in whatever career path I choose.
Share a similar Grand Canyon near-death experience? Commiserate with Claire by reaching her at claire@nclcv.org.
