Marine Teens Internship
In 2019 the Education Outreach team at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County launched the Marine Teens program, thanks to the generosity of the Vera R. Campbell Foundation.
Each year, the program recruits ten 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 Peer Mentors return in a leadership role from the previous cohort. As paid Museum employees, the Marine Teens develop a marine science interpretation project, which they share with Museum visitors over the summer.
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.
The 2024 Marine Teens Cohort
Back row, from left: Sebastian Cuellar, Fernando Chica, Francisco Vaquero, Salvador 'Chava' Chavarria
Front row, from left: Valeria Rosas, Yajaira Valverde, Jackie Aguirre, Shanell Rincon, Isa Soto, Brandon Chavez
Jackie Aguirre
I am currently a senior at MSTMA at Roosevelt High School. I enjoy exploring nature and gaining new experiences. In the fall, I plan to study at UCLA! This summer I'm looking forward to getting hands-on experiences in the field of Marine Biology!
Salvador ‘Chava’ Chavarria
My name is Salvador Chavarria and I am a rising senior at the Math, Science & Technology Magnet Academy at Roosevelt High School. I enjoy the overall environment of museums as they create a very enjoyable atmosphere to learn in. In this internship I’m looking forward to learning and getting familiar with the museum, and our trip to Catalina Island.
Brandon Chavez
HI! I'm a current senior at Mendez High School. After graduating I plan on majoring in Political Science at UCSB. Something I look forward to in this internship is being able to socialize with museum visitors and sparking a potential life long interest. I want to make it memorable for myself and the people!
Fernando Chica (2nd Year Peer Mentor)
My name is Fernando and I’m a senior at the Math, Science & Technology Magnet Academy (MSTMA). I love taking advantage of fun new experiences such as traveling and getting to meet new people. In the fall I will be pursuing my passion for marine science by continuing to study it in college.
Sebastian Cuellar
Hello there! My name is Sebastian and I attend the MSTMA program at Theodore Roosevelt High School! Very soon, I’ll be graduating and heading over to Cal State LA so I can broaden my horizons. I hold such a genuine love and passion for museums of all kinds, and when I learned there was an internship I leapt at the opportunity! Ever since I was a baby, going to museums to learn never felt boring; there’s not a single thing that isn’t interesting. Along with this, marine science and the ocean in general is undoubtedly fascinating. All these different lifeforms who learn to adapt, all their colors, and all their features–I simply wish to learn more, while also being able to teach others about the things I love.
Shanell Rincon (2nd Year Peer Mentor)
My name is Shanell Rincon and I’m a current senior at Roosevelt High School. This fall I will be attending UC San Diego and majoring in electrical engineering. In my spare time I enjoy artmaking and exploring nature. Working with the 2023 Marine Teens cohort was a mesmerizing experience. I’m happy to return to the 2024 Marine Teens cohort as a Peer Mentor.
Valeria Rosas
Hello! I am currently attending Mendez High School as a senior. I enjoy listening to music, as well as playing and singing it! I will be attending Occidental College in the fall and I will be studying psychology. I look forward to learning more about marine life and gaining this new experience.
Isa Soto
My name is Isa Soto and I'm a senior at MSTMA at Roosevelt High School. I plan to attend UC Sunta Barbara in the fall to study aquatic biology. One of my favorite things about marine science is the vast amount of topics within this area of science. It can range from studying the patterns of the tide to observing the behaviors of animals. There's so much to learn in marine science and I can't wait to learn as much as possible.
Yajaira Valverde
My name is Yajaira and I'm a rising senior at MSTMA. In the future, I plan to major in environmental science. I am looking forward to giving kids the same amazing experience I enjoyed as a kid coming to the Natural History Museum, which fueled my love for science and exploration.
Francisco Vaquero
My name is Francisco Vaquero and I currently attend MSTMA at Roosevelt. My favorite thing about museums is the learning experience and the stunning atmosphere. I am looking forward to presenting my Discovery Cart project to our guests.
Application Information
Learn more about the Marine Teens program in the videos below:
Meet the 2023 Marine Teens
Learn about the 2022 Marine Teens 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.