Marine Teens Internship

Marine Science Teen Interns seen from behind walking on a trail towards the ocean

In 2019 the Education Outreach team at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County launched the Marine Science Teen Internship Program, thanks to the generosity of the Vera R. Campbell Foundation. 

Each year, the program recruits a cohort of ten teens from the Boyle Heights neighborhood in East Los Angeles. Eight first year interns are high school juniors and seniors from the Math, Science, & Technology Magnet Academy, Theodore Roosevelt High School, and Felicitas & Gonzalo Mendez High School in Boyle Heights. Two interns return from the previous cohort as Peer Mentors. All ten teens begin in the spring and become paid Museum employees over the summer, when they develop a marine science-related project.

Learn more in the video below:

Program goals for the interns include: 

  • Gain exposure to museum research, collections, interpretation, program development, and facilitation;
  • Acquire critical knowledge and skills that will enhance their academic achievement and broaden their future career options and work preparedness;
  • Gain a greater understanding of their strengths, interests, and potential career paths;
  • Be empowered to go back to their communities and share their knowledge using the critical thinking and communication skills they have gained.

Additional goals for Peer Mentors (2nd year interns) include:

  • Enhance understanding of the Museum’s role in the community through participation in NHM education outreach programs; 
  • Acquire leadership skills by taking on responsibilities such as advising and collaborating with first-year interns.

Application Information

Check out one of our initiatives in the video below:

Meet the 2023 Marine Teens

Learn about the 2022 program

Job, Research and Internship Opportunities

For additional opportunities in marine biology, ecology, conservation, and informal education, check out this resource.*

*Please note that information regarding opportunities at other non-profit organizations is provided as a courtesy resource, not as an endorsement of any listed program.