Field Biology Internships (FBI)

The Field Biology Internship (FBI) is geared towards high school students interested in gaining STEM skills, especially out in the field, and if you like learning about local ecosystems and life. This is an opportunity to build a foundation in research and experiment design which are essential skills for future programs and college.
Field biology is the study of organisms in their natural environment. Interns will visit and experience various ecosystems in Alley Pond Park and other parts of Queens, NYC. Take what you learn in the classroom to the outdoors and experience the science yourself!
Field biology is the study of organisms in their natural environment. Interns will visit and experience various ecosystems in Alley Pond Park and other parts of Queens, NYC. Take what you learn in the classroom to the outdoors and experience the science yourself!
What We Do
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- be at least 14 years old and currently in high school
- be able to participate in outdoor activities for at least 2 hours
- be interviewed and accepted into the program
- be able to commit attendance to 5 out of 6 classes, not including orientation
- have their own transportation to site
- complete a final exit project and presentation to fulfill internship requirements
Why Apply? What Are The Benefits?
Interns will:
- learn about different urban environments and the local flora and fauna
- gain experience in collecting field data and record keeping
- build a community with fellow interns and mentor(s)
- meet with local environmental professionals
- develop skills in personal research, experiment design, and public speaking/presenting
How To Apply
To apply for the program, click the "Online Application" button below to fill out the application form. The application process includes a virtual interview which will be arranged after the student's submission is received.
Application Deadlines:
Fall - September 1st | Spring - February 1st | Summer - June 1st
Application Deadlines:
Fall - September 1st | Spring - February 1st | Summer - June 1st
Schedule
Spring 2024: Saturdays, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
March 16th, 23rd
April 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th* (*special event: City Nature Challenge)
& May 4th
Summer 2024: Wednesdays 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Fall 2024: Saturdays, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
March 16th, 23rd
April 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th* (*special event: City Nature Challenge)
& May 4th
Summer 2024: Wednesdays 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Fall 2024: Saturdays, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Fee
After acceptance, there is a $150 fee to participate in the internship. Financial aid can be provided at request and no documentation is necessary.
Please contact Erica Chow at echow@alleypond.org for more information or questions regarding the internship.
Thank You To Our Green Guest Speakers!
Roswell Lo - Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.
Sophia Misiakiewicz - Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.
Jeff Mah - Con Edison
Mabel Law - Con Edison
Mike Feller
Sophia Misiakiewicz - Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.
Jeff Mah - Con Edison
Mabel Law - Con Edison
Mike Feller
Senior Independent Internships
High school seniors who are interested in the Senior Independent Internship can contact us for information on setting-up a program that interests them. This internship is great for students from FBI that would like to further expand on field collection and research or for new students that would like to conduct or research a topic they are passionate about. We are currently not accepting applications at this time. Please check back for updates. Contact Erica Chow at echow@alleypond.org with any questions.
Summer 2022 - Senior Intern Anna Hsu
This summer, Anna Hsu conducted an experiment to explore the ecological health of some of the kettle ponds in Alley Pond Park! Benthic macroinvertebrate samples were collected over the course of 5 weeks and analyzed as bio-indicators for our freshwater systems. Water quality monitoring was conducted alongside the sampling to better measure parameters like pH and nutrient levels. The research will help us better understand the state of our urban forest and ponds. Her testing and analyses culminated in this PowerPoint presentation below.
This program is made possible by generous support from Con Edison, ERM Foundation, Lily Auchincloss Foundation, and National Grid.
APEC's education programs are supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council. Additional funding may have been provided by the NYC Department of Youth & Community Development, NYC Department of Parks & Recreation, and members of the NYC Council.
APEC's education programs are supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council. Additional funding may have been provided by the NYC Department of Youth & Community Development, NYC Department of Parks & Recreation, and members of the NYC Council.
The environmental center is located in Alley Pond Park, surrounded by lush nature trails where visitors can enjoy NYC's natural landscapes. Guests are welcome to attend one of APEC's many nature oriented programs for all ages and visit the center's animal ambassadors. Please explore our website to learn more and register for programs.
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