Working with Student Interns
Johna Boulafentis
Environmental Outreach Specialist
Nez Perce Tribe
ERWM Air Quality
Projects with interns
• ITEP Student Summer Internship
• Wood Stove Study and Changeout– Funded by Nez Perce Tribe & ITEP Short
Internship Program
• Air Toxics and Health– College intern – 4 high school project leaders
Intern proposal
• Project is appropriate for an intern
• Consider the skills and qualities you are seeking
• Design a detailed project and multiple small tasks
• Clear duties and expected results
• Adequate time to complete project
Professional development
• Continuous Communication– Discuss project, duties, and expected results– Professionalism and confidentiality – Communication
Professional development cont’
• Accountability/Responsibility – Report of activities– Evaluation of work
Professional development cont’
• Participation/Inclusion– Conference calls, meetings, workshops– Sufficient workspace
Beyond the office
• New to your area– Help with housing and arrival logistics– Offer a welcome tour of the area– Introduce to coworkers & other interns– Take to cultural & local events
• Share opportunities– Scholarships, internships, jobs
Lessons Learned
• Exploration of intern’s interests. Can those be included or furthered?
• Be clear how you wish a project to look or indicate that you are open to ideas
• Check-ins are key. Discover progress/ challenges
Thank YOU!
Johna Boulafentis
Environmental Outreach Specialist
ERWM Air Quality
Nez Perce Tribe
208-843-7375 ext. 2367
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