Hometown: Fort Myers, Florida
Major: Landscape Architecture
What got you interested in your major?
My decision to study landscape architecture stems from my interest in design, ecology and sociology. I’ve always loved the idea of using conservation to pursue humanitarian goals. Landscape architecture blends all those aspects and gives me the freedom to learn more about the field.
What motivated you to pursue a Horticulture internship at the Harn?
This is a really exciting opportunity because I love art, and I’ve always been interested in its ability to transform public spaces. To see the Harn value and invest in its landscapes to the degree that it has means a lot to me. I get to learn more about the artistic and cultural meanings of landscape through many of the projects I take on.
What’s something you like to do for fun in your free time?
I’m very adventurous and love to try all different types of foods. When I have time, I like finding new, wild places to explore on Google Maps.
What’s your favorite spot at the Harn?
I love spending time in the Asian Water Garden. The Harn has several unique gardens, and I get so much joy seeing visitors at Museum Nights enjoying the outdoor spaces too.
What responsibilities does your internship entail? What does a typical day at the museum look like for you?
Most of what I do involves maintenance of the museum’s natural spaces. My internship is very hands-on and encourages both my creative and technical side. My day-to-day tasks include collaborating with the Horticulture team on the research and design that goes into planning a garden.
How has the Criser Internship impacted your academic/career development? In what ways has it enhanced your knowledge of art and nature?
Criser is a very prestigious name because of its legacy at UF, especially for landscape architecture students. The Criser Internship was the most accommodating for my studies and career goals. It has enabled me to commit more time outside at the Harn, and I don’t think that’s something I could have ever done without it.
Visit the Harn’s website to learn more about internships and application deadlines. If you are interested in supporting paid internships at the Harn, please consider making a gift of any size to the Expanding Student Possibilities Fund, Tim Joiner Memorial Intern Fund, or Jalyn Imani Stallworth Internship Endowment. Please contact the Development office at development@harn.ufl.edu for more information about supporting paid internships or other ways to give.
