MUM Internship Office - Recently Updated Pages

Contact Us

dyepez — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 10:54:33 CDT

Rachel Goodman
Director of Career Strategies
Extension: 1151
Home Number: 641-472-4894
E-mail: rgoodman@mum.edu

Sustainable Living Internships

dyepez — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:28:50 CDT

KALU YALA - Sustainable Whole-System Community Intern Program

About Kalu Yala:

Kalu Yala is a 7,000 acre valley that backs up to a 320,000 acre national park, sits at the headwaters of a 90,000 acre watershed, 50% is primary rainforest while the rest is currently used for cattle grazing, and is located 45 minutes from Panama City's central business district and 30 minutes from the international airport. The village we are designing in the valley will eventually have a population of over 10,000 people.

We are designing a sustainable food system with incubator and micro farms and a large market that will be able to provide almost all of Kalu Yala's food. Energy will be produced on the property. We will help build social capital and empower environmental responsibility in the 200,000 acre region surrounding us. Residents and guests will have access to the huge national park that borders Kalu Yala and all the adventure and education it holds.

Some of the best architects and planners in the world are helping us to make it one of the most sustainable places on earth. We are designing a sustainable food system with micro farms and a large market that will be able to provide almost all of Kalu Yala's food. Energy will be produced on the property. We will help build social capital and empower environmental responsibility in the 200,000 acre region surrounding us. Residents and guests will have access to the national park that borders Kalu Yala and all the adventure and education it holds.

Although Kalu Yala covers over 7,000 acres, the village will be designed on less than 20% of the land. This allows us to preserve all of the primary rainforest, over 3,000 acres in total. Working with the online community and experts, we will decide how to divide the remaining land between the village, reforestation and small scale sustainable farms.

About the Kalu Yala Intern Program:

This summer is our inaugural intern summer- as I said we'll have a total of 11 interns by the end of July, 6 of whom are already living and working in Panama. Surprisingly, our current interns all contacted us to inquire about possible internships. Each person gave compelling reasons for how they could help with the project. Being a whole-systems approach, with little out-sourcing for this research stage of the project, the Kalu Yala team has room for people with all types of backgrounds to flourish.

Based on what we knew about the interns coming down we narrowed down our list of priorities and what they would be most valuable assisting with. Currently, with the 6 internsalready here,we have 3 "teams": natural systems within the Kalu Yala valley, Panamanian agricultural business and sustainable agriculture, and tourism with a focus on Central America, adventure travel and eco-travel.These teams will likely change each semester as research is completed and thefocuses and interestsof our interns change.

Each week our teams write out their own plans on a project management spreadsheet we've created for the entire team (shared via Google documents). On Friday they turn in a simple Google document of their findings for the week. At the end of their internship stay each team will make a final presentation of what they found and how their findings can be applied in the building of Kalu Yala. You can follow their progress on our blog atwww.KaluYala.com.

It is expected for each intern to work 40 hour weeks but we are largely flexible with when these hours are worked.

Interns are not required to live in our housing but it is encouraged- it's a ton of fun and you get to know your co-interns. We live in Bella Vista directly across from Urraca Park on the 5th floor (penthouse!) of a historic building. It's pretty spectacular. (I currently live in the apartment and was given the opportunity to move to my brother's house with a private bedroom and bath in Cerron Ancon- I turned it down- that's how much I like our apartment :) ) Currently, rent per person is $300 a month with maid, utilities, internet and CSA subscription(http://www.culantrorojo.com/blog/?lang=en/).

Interns are not required to speak Spanish although it is beneficial to living and working in Panama.This is an unpaid internship.

Most of our current interns are leaving in early September so tentatively the internship dates for fall are September 13 though December 17. Come spring semester the dates will be January 10 through April 22.The deadline for 2010 fall applications is 12PM, July 16.

As for applying, students should submita resume and a short essay (1-2 pages, double spaced) on why you'd like to be a part of our team (what particularly interests you about Kalu Yala) and what skills you will bring with you to Panama. Student can e-mail me these items directly atKateStice@gmail.com.

If selected for the internship,a month prior to arrival we'll need a deposit of the first month's rent to confirm your commitment ($300).

California Center for Sustainable Energy - Internship Program ( Climate Change and Renewable Energy projects
Organization: The CCSE Internship Program offers internship opportunities to qualified undergraduate and graduate students , a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the fields of energy program implementation, outreach and education. This program enables students to work on specific projects under the direction of CCSE's professional staff and is tailored to provide the maximum educational benefit to each participant.
Location: San Diego, CA
Length: flexible. opportunities available year-round
Level: minimum of three years of undergraduate training
Compensation: unpaid

The Environmental Law and Policy Center - Environmental Policy Intern
Organization: LPC is the Midwest’s leading public interest environmental legal advocacy and eco-business innovation organization. They develop strategic advocacy campaigns to protect our natural resources and improve environmental quality. Job activities may include research, clean energy business development, grass roots advocacy work, and special projects. Interns also may attend meetings with state and federal agencies, legislators, and concerned citizens.
Location: Chicago, IL
Length: Seasonal, throughout the summer
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Summer
Compensation: unpaid

Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) - Small Farm Unit Apprenticeship Opening
Organization: Here's an opportunity to work closely with Steve Moore! The Small Farm Unit at the CEFS is currently seeking apprentices interested in learning about sustainable agriculture production, research, and education. No previous knowledge of sustainable farming is necessary. Apprentices will be able to learn from an assortment of activities related to organic farming, as well as play an active role in the small farm's community involvement in Wayne County.
Location: Goldsboro, North Carolina
Length: short and long term durations are available. Flexibility on start/end dates.
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Flexible
Compensation: Housing, food from the farm and a small stipend is available.

The Good Life Center - Forest Farm Apprenticeship
Organization: The Good Life Center encourages and supports individual and collective efforts to live sustainably into the future. Guided by the principles of kindness, respect and compassion in relationships with natural and human communities, The Good Life Center promotes active participation in the advancement of social justice, creative integration of the life of the mind, body and spirit, and deliberate choice in living responsibly and harmoniously in an increasingly complicated world.
Location: Harborside (Brooksville), Maine
Length: Flexible, but at least three months and at least 25 to 30 hrs/week
Level: College Student. Ideally, someone who is comfortable working with the general public
Start Date: Summer. Application reviews start in March and the application deadline is April 15
Compensation: Paid. Stipend provided.

Echolective Farm - Organic Farming Internship
Organization: Echolective Farm and CSA is a blossoming farming community that sits on a 55 acre piece of land of which 32 acres is forested with the rest currently in cover-crops of cultivation. They grow close to two acres of garlic, an acre and a half of asparagus, an acre of strawberries, and three more acres of salad green and organic vegetables. A small apple orchard is growing and recently chestnuts, hazelnuts, paw-paws and persimmons have been planted. Many wild and tasty black berries exist along the woodland edge as well as stand of willow and wild flowers. They also have one hive of bees. Farm manager and intern coordinator are both trained in permaculture and are working towards a perennial food system that is off-grid and self-sufficient. Echolective Farm currently has contracts with five local food restaurants, New Pioneer Co-op and sell produce twice a week at the Iowa City Farmer’s Market. Click here to see pictures of the farm.
Location: Mechanicsville, Iowa (25 miles north of Iowa City)
Length: Flexible, but at least one month
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Flexible. Opportunity is opened until November.
Compensation: Paid. 25 hours/week $75/week. Contact Kyle Sieck (krsieck@gmail.com) for more information or to chat in person about life on the farm. Kyle is currently employed with MUM’s Sustainable Living Department and plans to depart for the farm March 1st.

Resource Center- Recycling Collection Intern
Organization: Do you want to know where your recycled cans and bottles really go? Help the Resource Center, Chicago’s oldest and largest non-profit recycler, as we expand and transition our recycling collections program. This program offers honest, trustworthy recycling collection services to businesses and residential buildings throughout Chicago. We’re looking for an intern to help make the expansion a successful one. Location: Chicago, IL
Length: 3 month internship
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Application deadline is December 31st
Compensation: Unpaid

Illinois OPP Environmental Protection Agency - Pollution Prevention Intern
Organization: The mission of the Office of Pollution Prevention (OPP) is to promote pollution prevention (P2) as the preferred strategy for environmental protection. Reducing or eliminating pollution at the source is preferable to treating or managing it after the fact. P2 not only can help businesses and others achieve better environmental protection, but it can also help them save money, improve efficiency and ease regulatory concerns.Location: Chicago, IL
Length: 3 month internship
Level: Junior College Student.
Start Date: Flexible.
Compensation: $2,100 to $2,700 per month

Distant Village Packaging - Sustainable Packaging Design Intern
Organization: Distant Village Packaging is an exciting and rapidly growing international company specializing in custom hand-made packaging for fine chocolates, tea/coffee, bath/body/spa, and other specialty markets. Distant Village Packaging is committed to eco-friendly and sustainable development and is a passionate contributor toward the communities and people they work with. This is an outstanding hands-on internship experience with exciting sustainable materials.Location: Chicago, IL
Length: 15 to 20 hours per week
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Flexible.
Compensation: Not Specified

Blooming Glen Farm - Organic Agriculture Intern
Organization: Founded in January 2006, is in its third season of production. It is situated in scenic Upper Bucks County, Pennsylvania on 70 acres of preserved farm land in Hilltown Township. Farmers Tom Murtha and Tricia Borneman partnered with Henry and Charlotte Rosenberger who own the land that is Blooming Glen Farm. They all share a common vision for encouraging sustainable agriculture in Bucks County through farming practices which enrich the soil and protect our water and air. They grow over 75 different varieties of vegetables, fruits, flowers and herbs and market their produce through their 180 member CSA, to restaurants and natural food stores, and at the seasonal Headhouse Farmer's Market on Sundays in Philadelphia. Location: Upper Bucks County, PA
Length: April through November 2009
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Summer '09. Position is open until filled
Compensation: Housing and farm produce provided. $800/ month stipend.

Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education - Resources Intern
Organization: AASHE is an association of colleges and universities in the U.S. and Canada working to create a sustainable future (MUM's a member of it!). It was founded in 2006 with a mission to promote sustainability in all sectors of higher education - from governance and operations to curriculum and outreach - through education, communication, research and professional development. AASHE defines sustainability in an inclusive way, encompassing human and ecological health, social responsibility, secure livelihoods, and a better world for all generations.
Location: Lexington, Kentucky
Length: Summer 2009
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Summer '09. Position is open until filled
Compensation: $10/$13 per hour

CareTaker Farm- Organic Agriculture Intern
Organization: Caretaker Farm, established in 1969, is a community supported farm, the year-around provision of vegetables and fruits for 250 families and the annual training of 4 apprentices within the framework and principles of organic agriculture. The farm, while primarily directed to vegetable production, has mixed livestock (Beef Cows, Milking Cow, Pigs, and Chickens), three greenhouses, and a bakery. The farm, which covers 35 acres, is bisected by a small river and is part of an extended rural valley.
Location:
Length: 4 months (April through November)
Level: College Student.
Start Date: April 2009
Compensation: Housing and meals provided, free internet and phone access. Health insurance stipend ($100 month) and a $500/month stipend.

Nebraska Renewable Energy Systems
Organization: The NRES Renewable Energy Internship will provide selected students the opportunity to custom design their internship curriculum with us based on interest, career field of study and home institution goals. These goals can include hands on training in most areas of renewable energy production, building understanding and confidence you cannot gain in a classroom. This aspect of this internship opportunity is the hardest to find as well as the most important aspect of the program, giving an edge to anyone wanting to be involved with this industry.
Location: The internship is flexible and can be conducted in a variety of locations, but is centered at the Energy Farm in Lyons, Nebraska
Length: Flexible
Level: College Student.
Start Date: FlexibleCompensation: Housing, utilities and a negotiated stipend for expenses. Local transportation is available and customized programs can be designed.

US National Arboretum Intern
Organization: An arboretum is a living museum where trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants are cultivated for scientific and educational purposes. The U.S. National Arboretum offers a limited number of internships to qualified individuals seeking on-the-job work experience and training in horticulture, botany, research, education, facilities management, and public garden administration. Selected individuals gain hands-on experience throughout the Arboretum's various plant collections, greenhouses, and research laboratories.
Location: Washington, DC
Length: 3 months. 30hrs/wk
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Beginnning of the internships is either May or June. There is no deadline, but to receive first consideration, please apply by Feb. 1st.
Compensation: $10.94/hour

Live Earth Farm - Organic Farm Education Intern
Organization: Live Earth Farm, established in 1996, is a 45 acre diversified, organic, family farm overlooking the Green Valley in the Santa Cruz area of California. They offer a year round CSA with 700 members during the regular season and grow 40 different fruits and vegetables ranging from perennial fruit trees to a wide variety of annual crops. Produce is sold at four area farmer’s markets and through a 700 member CSA program
Location: Santa Cruz, CA
Length: 2 to 6 months. 40hrs/wk
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Flexible, but ideally before the end of October.
Compensation: A private room and communal kitchen, a stipend of $400/month and all of the fruit, vegetables, eggs, and goat’s milk you could want

Spikenard Farm - Biodynamic Farming and Honeybee Sanctuary Intern
Organization: Spikenard Farm is managed in the most holistic way imaginable: biodynamically. A biodynamic farm strives to become a unique entity. The aim is to work towards the idea that its organs - fields, pastures, orchards, hedges, woods, wetlands, crops and animals - are in harmony and reciprocal support, lifting fertility to a high level. Establishing the greatest possible diversity of grasses, legumes, vegetables and medicinal herbs will trigger a synergetic effect throughout: grains, fruit, flowers, bee forage, vegetables, and trees.
Above and beyond sound organic practices, biodynamics is able to strengthen life forces and stimulate enzyme, hormone and trace mineral processes with the help of special preparations.
Location: Carrollton, IL
Length: 2 to 6 months.
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Flexible.
Compensation: Room and board provided. Compensation negotiable.

Business Council on Climate Change Intern
Organization: The Business Council on Climate Change (BC3) is a partnership of San Francisco Bay Area businesses committed to reducing their green house gas emissions.
As a member-driven organization, BC3 companies of all sizes are actively committed to implementing their “5 Principles on Climate Leadership.”
BC3 members collaborate to share ideas and real-world case studies, identify valuable tools, participate in educational forums, and establish best practices.
Location: San Francisco, CA
Length: 2 to 6 months. A minimum of 20 and up to 40 hours per week.
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Flexible.
Compensation: Not paid

US Department of Energy - Internships in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Organization: EERE's programs conduct activities in partnership with the private sector, state and local government, DOE national laboratories, and universities. In July 2002, EERE reorganized to strengthen its focus on programs and these partnerships. They have 10 different energy programs including the Geothermal Technology Program, Solar Energy Technology Program and the Wind and Hydropower Technology Program. Click here to learn more about the programs.
Location: Washington, DC
Length: 3 month commitment required. A minimum of 15 hours per week.
Level: College Student
Start Date: Ongoing internships and by terms.
Compensation: Flexible

Solar Living Institute - Internships
Organization: Established in 1998 as a spin-off from Real Goods Trading Company, the Solar Living Institute is a non-profit educational organization whose mission is to promote sustainable living through inspirational environmental education. The Institute provides practical, education by example and hands-on workshops on renewable energy, green building, sustainable living, permaculture, organic gardening and alternative, environmental, construction methods.
The Institute is headquartered at the Solar Living Center, a gorgeous 12-acre renewable energy and sustainable living demonstration site visited by nearly 200,000 people annually in the heart of Northern California’s wine country. Since its inception nearly two million visitors have experienced the Solar Living Center.
Length: 4 months. Interns are required to work a total of 32 hours per week
Location: Hopland,CA
Level: College Student
Start Date: They have 3 Session Dates. Click here to learn about the dates.
Compensation: weekly food stipend, living accomodations, free access to workshops and the library, free internet access.
Click here, to read about previous interns experiences.

Environmental Auditor Intern - Center for Sustainability Kent District Library
Organization:

Length: not specified

Location: Kent County, Michigan
Level: Student working toward a degree in Sustainable Business, preferably in their final year
Start Date: Application deadline is December 1st, 2008
Compensation: Paid. $10 per hour

Kansas City Center for Urban Agriculture
Daniel Dermitzel
daniel@kccua.org

Citizens to Label GE Foods
Organization: Non-profit organization established March 2008 to pass federal legislation requiring mandatory labeling of genetically engineered food.

Length: 4 to 6 months.

Location: Fairfield,IA
Level: College Student
Start Date: Internships available all year round. Flexible scheduling will be arranged to comply with academic requirements. Intern will work from M.U.M. and report daily to the Executive Director.
Compensation: Paid

Bullock Brothers Farms - Permaculture Internship Program
Organization: Bullock Brothers Farms. Extraordinary permaculture site, the Bullock's Permaculture Homestead. For over 25 years they have applied their shared experience to create what experts refer to as the finest permaculture site in North America. Together they develop and implement practical solutions for sustainable living while offering hands-on permaculture courses, workshops, internships, and more.
Length: 4 to 6 months.
Location: Orcas Island,WA
Level: College Student
Start Date: April 2- Sept. 15. Application deadline October 31st,2008. Contact Professor Gamble for applications after the deadline.
Compensation: Room and Board partially provided. Various opportunities to earn money at the farm.

SlowFood USA Internships
Organization: Each season, Slow Food USA hires interns to work in their national office. An internship at Slow Food is a terrific way to learn about the food sector and the non-profit world, and to be involved in a movement that seeks to preserve the world we live in while enjoying its harvest.
Location: Brooklyn, NYC
Length: 3 month commitment required. A minimum of 15 hours per week. Full time commitment preferred
Level: College Student
Start Date: Ongoing internships and by terms. Application deadline for Winter'09 Internships is Nov 9th
Compensation: Not specified

American Council on Renewable Energy - Individual Research Project Intern
Organization: The philosophy behind the program includes a strong focus on an Individual Research Project with minor emphasis on Renewable Energy Education and Networking. Each Research Project is determined by the intern themselves and is approved by ACORE staff. After the selection of the Project's subject, ACORE's wide array of resources is available to the intern. Interns are expected to work independently but are encouraged to ask for guidance. Depending on the time of the internship, interns may also have a chance to participate in several different conferences or help with ACORE's wide array of committees.
Length: Most internships are 2 or 3 days full days per week for 3 to 4 months.
Location: Washington, DC
Level: College Student
Start Date: Spring 2009 (June - August). Part or full time. Application deadline December 15th, 2008
Compensation: Unpaid.

Growing Growers - Apprenticeship Program
Organization: Growing Growers was established to address this need for more farmers and for more effective farmers. As a collaboration between K-State Research and Extension, University of Missouri Research and Extension, the Kansas City Food Circle (a consumer organization), and the Kansas Rural Center, we set out the goal of providing educational opportunities to help new growers get started and established ones get better at what they do.
Length: Ideally 6 to 7 months, but flexible.
Location: Kansas City Area
Level: College student
Start Date: April 2009. Application deadline for 2009 is March 1st.
Compensation: Might be paid as an hourly employee at the host farm. Also, there are scholarships available for the workshops.

Environmental & Energy Study Institute - Sustainable Communities & Transportation Policy Intern
Organization: EESI is a non-profit established in 1984 by Congressional leaders, dedicated to promoting environmentally sustainable societies in the areas of renewable energy/efficiency, climate change; transportation/smart growth; and agriculture and energy. Its primary focus is on national policy and policymaker education.
Length: 20 to 40 hours per week for 10 to 12 weeks. Possible extension.
Location: Washington, DC
Level: College senior or graduate.
Start Date: Flexible. Position is open untill filled
Compensation: Unpaid. Transportation benefits.

Environmental & Energy Study Institute -Energy & Climate Policy Program: Advanced Internship
Organization: EESI is a non-profit established in 1984 by Congressional leaders, dedicated to promoting environmentally sustainable societies in the areas of renewable energy/efficiency, climate change; transportation/smart growth; and agriculture and energy. Its primary focus is on national policy and policymaker education.
Length: 20 to 40 hours per week for 10 to 12 weeks. Possible extension.
Location: Washington, DC
Level: College senior or graduate.
Start Date: Flexible. Position is open untill filled
Compensation: Unpaid. Transportation benefits.

American Rivers - National River Clean Up Intern and Government Relations Intern
Organization: American Rivers is a national non-profit conservation organization dedicated to protecting and restoring healthy natural rivers and the variety of life they sustain for people, wildlife and nature.
Length: 3 months. 25 hours per week.
Location: Washington, DC
Level: College senior.
Start Date: Flexible.
Compensation: Unpaid

SandHill Farms - Intern
Organization: They've been farming organically and building community since 1974 on 135 acres. They grow most of their food and share income, meals, vehicles and other resources. Most of their property is grassland and woods (about 60 acres of each), with the remainder for buildings, gardens, orchards, chickenyard, cropland and ponds.
Length: 3 to 8 months. 30 to 35 hours per week.
Location: Sandhill -Scotland County, MO
Level: College.
Start Date: March 1st. 2009
Compensation: Sandhill provides all on-farm meals. Diet is primarily low dairy vegetarian supplemented with homegrown meat (or locally hunted venison.) Special needs diets are accomodated. Interns are expected to bring their own tent and tarp to sleep outdoors. Some indoor housing may be available. Community common spaces are available for writing, reading, etc. $50 per month stipend for each intern whose stay is at least 10 weeks.

Inform - Green Cleaning Research Internship
Organization: They are dedicated to educate the public about the effects of human activity on the environment and public health. Their goal is to empower citizens, businesses and government to adopt practices and policies that will sustain our planet for future generations.
Length: 30 to 40 hours per week. One to six months, depending on the project
Location: New York City
Level: College Student
Start Date: Flexible
Compensation: unpaid
Hey Bayles Farm - Organic Farming Internship Program
Organization: Family run, certified organic farm, growing a wide range of fruits and vegetables and specializing in leafy greens. They grow a wide range of market crops, but they specialize in cool season crops that are best suited for their maritime influenced valley.
Length: April through October. 30 to 40 hours per week.
Location: Lorane, Oregon
Level: College Student
Start Date: April 2009
Compensation: Housing, fresh produce and a $250 per month stipend provided.

American Forests- Communications, Forest Policy, Global ReLeaf, Urban Ecosystems Intern Positions
Organization: American Forests is the nation's oldest nonprofit citizen conservation organization. Internships at American Forests are a great way to get on-the-job experience - whether you're interested in a conservation career, trees and forests, or simply want to learn more about communications, development, marketing, policy or research.
Length: 3 to 6 months. 30 to 40 hours per week.
Location: Washington, DC
Level:1st year of college studies completed is required.
Start Date: Flexible. American Forests has a rolling acceptance policy, but encourages interested individuals to apply at least two months prior to the fall, spring, or summer terms.
Compensation: small stipend provided.

Energy and Environmental Research Center - Intern program
Organization: The EERC is dedicated to improving global quality of life by creating, demonstrating, and commercializing innovative technologies for cleaner air, water, soil, and energy. The EERC provides opportunities for qualified undergraduate, and graduate students and postdocs to gain valuable hands-on experience in a variety of disciplines, including (but not limited to):
Chemical, Mechanical and Electrical engineering, Geology, Hydrogeology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Physics, Accounting,Business,Marketing, Communications, and Editing Computer Technology
Length: Flexible
Location: Grand Forks, ND
Level: College
Start Date: Flexible.
Compensation: $7 to $15 per hour

Global Green USA - Communications & Development Internship
Organization: Founded in 1993 by activist and philanthropist Diane Meyer Simon, Global Green is the American Arm of Green Cross International (GCI), which was created by President Mikhail S. Gorbachev to foster a global value shift toward a sustainable and secure future by reconnecting humanity with the environment. Global Green is working to address some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. In the United States our work is primarily focused on stemming global climate change by creating green buildings and cities.
Length: Minimum of a 2 month commitment. Part time: 15-20 hours/week; Full time: 35 hours/week
Location: Washington, DC
Level:College Junior. Must have at least a 3.0 GPA
Start Date: Flexible
Compensation: Unpaid

Global Green USA - Security and Sustainability Program Internship
Organization: Founded in 1993 by activist and philanthropist Diane Meyer Simon, Global Green is the American Arm of Green Cross International (GCI), which was created by President Mikhail S. Gorbachev to foster a global value shift toward a sustainable and secure future by reconnecting humanity with the environment. Global Green is working to address some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. In the United States our work is primarily focused on stemming global climate change by creating green buildings and cities.
Length: Minimum of a 2 month commitment. Part time: 15-20 hours/week; Full time: 35 hours/week
Location: Washington, DC
Level:College Junior. Must have at least a 3.0 GPA
Start Date: Flexible
Compensation: Unpaid

Green Earth Institute - Organic Vegetable Farming Intern
Organization: Green Earth Institute Farm is a 60-acre diversified organic vegetable farm. The farm is the centerpiece of the Green Earth Institute, a non-for-profit organization dedicated to nutritional health and ecological sustainability.
Length: Up to six months.
Location: Naperville, IL
Level:College level.
Start Date: April 2009.
Compensation: $320/ per week. Lunch is provided. No housing is provided

Greenfield Properties - Intern Positions: green building and business development
Organization: Greenfield Properties is offering internship positions involved in many aspect of green and eco friendly housing design and development. Internship goals & objectives: assist with the designing of tiny eco houses specific to this climate region, researching new building techniques & materials, researching new sustainable building materials, creating economic heating and cooling systems, maintaining new blog, hosting talks on green building and expanding company into consulting.
Length: Starting spring semester 2009; one month sessions or blocks. Multiple consecutive blocks may be available
Location: Fairfield, Iowa
Level: College Level
Start Date: January 2009
Compensation: Unpaid, college credit.

Beyond Pesticides - Intern position
Organization: Beyond Pesticides is a national non-profit membership organization, founded in 1981, dedicated to educating the public about the toxic hazards of pesticides and safer alternatives. The organization advocates for strong policy to protect public health and the environment.Length: 3 months to one year.
Location: Washington, DC
Level:College level.
Start Date: Flexible.
Compensation: Small stipend provided

Windward - Modeling Sustainability Intern
Organization: Windward. Their primary focus is on modeling practical small-scale sustainable lifestyles.
The Windward Internship is an immersive experience in sustainable living at the small community level.
Windward Interns will participate in the construction and operation of our various sustainable systems, building theoretical understanding as well as a range of practical, hands-on skills. Duties may involve all community projects, including caring for livestock, organic gardening, food preparation and preservation, sustainable energy systems and infrastructure, light construction and equipment operation, general maintenance and upkeep.
In addition, Interns are expected to assume responsibility for their own Sustainability Project, which will be structured and developed under the guidance of Windward’s Internship Coordinator and other community members, as appropriate.
Length: 12 week program.
Location:Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Level: College Student
Start Date: Flexible. Program works on a rolling basis at various times of the year
Compensation: Room and Board provided
Click here to learn more about their current projects and what interns did in 2007

IPC, Inc - Invasive Plant Control Travel Intern
Organization: IPC, Inc. is a privately owned company considered one of the leaders in the invasive plant control market in the US. IPC has a strong focus on selective control in natural area settings.
Length: Throughout the summer
Location: Eastern US
Level: College Student
Start Date: Summer 2009
Compensation: $450 per week

Conservancy of Southwest Florida - Conservation Associate/Internships
Organization: Conservancy of Southwest Florida. Positions available in the following areas: Naples Nature Discovery Center, Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Environmental Policy, Environmental Science Field Research, and Environmental Education/Summer Day Camp.
Length: 2 to 6 months depending on the position
Location: Naples, FL
Level: College Level to Graduate. It varies depending on the position.
Start Date: Flexible
Compensation: A stipend of $150 weekly will be awarded. Accidental insurance, housing with a washer and dryer and uniform shirts are provided.

Yes! Magazine Internships
Organization: Yes! Magazine is committed to make change makers connect and create a more just and sustainable world!They have some internships currently available. Check out their Jobs & Internships page to learn more about their Education, Media & Outreach and Executive Intern positions.
Length: Minimum of three month commitment. In-office time commitment of 30 hours per week.
Location: Bainbridge Island, WA. Seattle area.
Level: College Student
Start Date: Some positions are starting as soon as Dec'08 .They are already accepting applications!
Compensation: Living accommodations and Health Insurance are provided
Click here to read about the experiences of current interns

Rocky Mountain Institute - Energy and Resources Team Intern
Organization: Rocky Mountain Institute
RMI’s Energy & Resources Team (ERT) works with leading companies around the country to rethink their processes and strategies in three primary areas:

Electric utility planning and strategy for energy efficiency, distributed generation, and renewable energy.
Industrial process efficiency.
Corporate and government energy and climate strategy.

Location: Boulder, CO
Length: 3-6 months.
Level: Graduate Studies
Start date: Flexible
Compensation: Not specified

Food for Thought - Internship/ Mentorship
Organization: Food for Thought, creators of organic and wild harvested gourmet specialty foods. Food For Thought is located on an organic farm in northern Michigan and housed in a green building
Location: Honor, MI
Length: 3-6 months.
Level: College Student
Start date: Flexible
Compensation: Not specified

Green/Environmental Job Boards

Anonymous — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:10:27 CDT

For any type of job that you might be applying for, we recommend you visit Indeed first. It's like Google-for-jobs and this office's current favorite

Cyber–Sierra's Natural Resources Job Search. Very helpful resource for job seekers

Sustainable Industries Jobs

Latest Sustainability Jobs

Earthworks Jobs

Eco-employ Jobs: Jobs in Environmental Non-profits

Environmental Career Jobs

Grist Jobs

Jobs for Change

Local Internships

Anonymous — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:00:15 CDT

Ideal Energy Internships - Fairfield, Iowa

To apply or for more information on these opportunities, contact

Troy Van Beek
President
Ideal Energy Inc.
Founding member Green Business Council
641-919-2269

Ideal Energy is currently seeking interns for the coming summer season. Ideal Energy is Fairfield-based company, which specializes in energy efficiency for the built environment. Although our company is just a year old, we've been identified as a key player in completing the Go-Green plan for the City of Fairfield, and have been working very closely with the City to help achieve the goals set forth in their sustainability plan.

What does it take to make real change on a citywide level? An internship with Ideal Energy will give you the opportunity to delve into a green makeover for the City of Fairfield, as we implement solutions to reducing the overall energy use of our town. We are focused on business expansion, and marketing techniques to inspire individuals to strive for greater energy efficiency. Below you will find a few of the projects we are currently focusing on.

WEBSITE

Ideal Energy is currently in process of designing an online portal which will make energy efficiency easy and achievable for all. Our goal is to attract a national audience. Our new website is nearly ready to launch, and features a learning center, access to our auditing services, a DIY home energy audit center, and an online store for home efficiency products. We are looking for help in the area of developing widgets for the site, to make a DIY audit easy. We are also looking to expand the product lines in our store, which involves researching home energy monitoring systems, weather proofing products, newest technologies for LEDs, etc. Our priorities have been to stay on the cutting edge of technology and efficiency products. We are also looking into small, single family sized energy generation (solar, wind, etc).

GREEN BUSINESS COUNCIL

Audits: Ideal Energy is a founding member of the Green Business Council of Fairfield and Jefferson County. The mission of the Green Business Council (GBC) is to reduce the energy consumption and waste in the commercial building sector. Ideal Energy has been assigned to the efficiency sector of the GBC, and has been completing 3 beta buildings, which will help us determine what types of efficiency measures will need to be taken to meet the GBC's goal of a 20% overall energy reduction for businesses. Once the beta buildings are complete, we will be making a push to audit and repair 140 commercial buildings within the City of Fairfield.
Products: The GBC members have also asked Ideal Energy to research products and provide pricing information which will make it easy for building owners to increase the efficiency of their buildings This will include researching and sourcing lighting materials, weather stripping, etc-all for commercial application.

CITY OF FAIRFIELD

Ideal Energy has been contracted by the City of Fairfield to help roll out the City's Go-Green plan. So far we have completed a Go-Green Guide for the residents of Fairfield, and are about to complete the Greenhouse Gas emission inventory for the City of Fairfield (through a City-wide audit). In the future will be helping the City modify the Go-Green plan into an achievable deadline, based on our findings in the Greenhouse Gas Emission report, and will be looking at grant and low-income programs which can help the city roll out efficiency measures in a fast and cost effective way.

Who should apply?

· Sustainability students
· Business students
· Those interested in product research
· Web design

One aspect of the Go Green plan is to provide jobs for Fairfield. Although these positions do not currently provide a salary we hope that through the work of the internship Ideal Energy Inc can expand and offer positions for interested students. Be sure to specify your interest in Ideal Energy.

Volunteer for a RainGarden Workshop and Learn Tons!!
When: April 16&17 (Friday and Saturday)
What to expect: Friday, 4/16 in the evening is a presentation indoors. Saturday is a hands-on demonstration and creation of the garden. We do expect all of the attendees to help, but would like to make sure we have several good strong volunteers who will definitely there to make this happen. We plan to use this project as a big educational example for the whole community, so it is important for the long run, not just that day. (Although, it is mostly for that day that we need help.)

This workshop will be run by Wayne Petersen from the Iowa DNR
For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, contact Denyce at 641-472-3866

Internship Opportunities with the City of Fairfield
Organization: The city of Fairfield launched this summer the Fairfield Go Green Strategic Plan 2020.
Below are some of the projects currently being developed:

Creating content for the city’s website on the GGSP

Helping collect and analyze data on city’s greenhouse gas emissions

Serving on one of the sub-committees for the GGSP (long term commitment)

Helping to design, create and inspire “Green Clubs” for local schools

Creating a “Mean Green Team” to help low-income/disadvantaged residents with energy efficiency, power garden creation, etc.

Location: Fairfield, Iowa
Length: Flexible. opportunities available year-round. full-time or part-time
Level: open
Compensation: unpaid
If interested, please contact the City's Sustainability Coordinator: Scott Timm. stimm@iastate.e

Job and Internship Boards

Anonymous — Mon, 17 May 2010 15:04:59 CDT

Greenbiz.com Greener Careers http://jobs.greenbiz.com/
Job listings ranging from Accounting to Art/Design and Fundraising to Environmental
Law all separated by category so it’s easy to search for the job that you’re looking for.

Green Dream Jobs www.sustainablebusiness.com/jobs
Part of the SustainableBusiness.com media enterprise, the jobs board includes positions
throughout the country and includes a database searchable by location, skill level, and
category.

Idealist.org http://www.idealist.org/if/as/Job
A wide variety of nonprofit jobs, as well as career guides to positions in nonprofit sector.
Decent search functions.

Treehugger http://jobs.treehugger.com/

http://www.indeed.com/

http://www.simplyhired.com/

http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/

http://www.careerbuilder.com/

http://www.sustainableindustries.com/jobs

http://www.earthworks-jobs.com/enviro.htm

http://www.ecoemploy.com/non/

http://www.environmentalcareer.info/index.asp

http://jobs.grist.org/

Internship Requirements

Anonymous — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 19:18:14 CST

Must directly relate to the student's major field or area of career interest
Must be full-time. Interns should work at least the same amount of hours as if they were taking a class (at least 25 hours per week).
Must be located in the United States. International Internships are possible only if the MUM Academic Advisor is on-site and the internship is movement related.
The on-site supervisor is a professional in the field (not a student) and provides continuous supervision and professional knowledge.
The MUM Faculty member has the role of Academic Advisor and is not the On-site Supervisor
Academic credit will not be granted for past internship experiences which were not previously established and approved
Student must have completed several units at MUM (approx. 1 year) including STC or SCI and 8 units in their major

Academic Deliverables for an Internship
The designated MUM Faculty Advisor meets with the student to decide upon deliverables for the internship and these may vary from case to case. They typically include: weekly reports, an online blog and a final summative essay.

Natural Building

dyepez — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:07:25 CST

Below are some organizations offering great opportunities in this field

Cob Cottage Company
Yestermorrow Internship Program Design/ Build School
Cal-Earth The California Institute of Earth Art and Architecture
Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage
EcoNest Appreticeship Program
Natural Building Network - Aprenticeships
The Last Straw - This Website has a list of Internship and Job Opportunities in Natural Building

Business Internships

dyepez — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 11:41:52 CST

Internet Marketing with emphasis on Social Media Internship
Organization: Common Sense Revisited
On-site supervisor: Clyde Cleveland. Will be working mostly with Eliyah Finkelstein.
Job entails: Working with computers and social networking platforms, including Digg, YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and more. Requires diligent organization and communication skills. MUST have above average computer skills.
Learning opportunities: How to market something on the Internet. Student will learn basic to intermediate marketing techniques for each of the major social networking platforms. These skills are extremely valuable in today's world. I would be giving knowledge to the student that I personally charge $35/hr for + a sales commission.
Minimum time requirement: 1 month (would prefer 3)
Payment:Student can choose between $350/month or 15% of profit increase (from 6 month mean average) for duration of internship and 1 month following.
For more information or to apply for this internship contact Eliyah Finkelstein at finkin@gmail.com or at (641) 233-0654

Institute for Responsible Technology- Internship Opportunities in Marketing, Community Organizing, Strategic Planning
Organization: The Institute for Responsible Technology’s Campaign for Healthier Eating in America mobilizes citizens, organizations, businesses, and the media, to achieve the tipping point of consumer rejection of genetically modified foods. The Institute educates people about the documented health risks of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and provides them with healthier non-GMO choices. The Institute also informs policy makers and the public around the world about the impacts of GMOs on health, environment, the economy, and agriculture, and the problems associated with current research, regulation, corporate practices, and reporting.
Click here for more information on these opportunities.
Location: Fairfield, Iowa
Length: From one month to a semester
Level: College student
Start Date: Flexible
Global Fairness Initiative- Management Intern
Organization: The Global Fairness Initiative was created in 2002 to extend the benefits of the global economy to all; to raise living standards for people living in poor countries and marginalized groups; and to foster healthy middle classes in all nations. They accomplish their mission by identifying and supporting innovative and successful initiatives that create and equitably distribute wealth and promote healthy, sustainable living.
Location: Washington, DC
Length: Flexible
Level: College Student.
Start Date: Flexible
Compensation:Not paid

World Bank - Internship Program
Organization: The World Bank is a vital source of financial and technical assistance to developing countries around the world. They are not a bank in the common sense. They are made up of two unique development institutions owned by 185 member countries—the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)and the International Development Association (IDA).
Location: Washington, DC (some positions are offered in county offices). Click here for Region Specific Internships
Length: One month minimum commitment
Level: Student must be enrolled in a Master's or Phd program.
Start Date: The Application period for the Summer Internship Program begins on December 1 until January 31.
Compensation: Travel Expenses Paid. Hourly wage

Opportunities for Internships at MUM

Anonymous — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 11:32:37 CST

There are a number of excellent projects waiting to be developed on campus. It will be great for any student to devote a month or two and develop these projects and accomplish something great for the university. This would also look great on a resume. Below are some of the projects.

MUM Climate Action Plan Project
About the Project: The goal is for the MUM campus to reduce its carbon footprint as much as possible. The project is about the development of a formal document of the Climate Action Plan, based on preliminary documents and pilot projects. There are a number of tasks that need to be accomplished, such as:

creating an inventory of Green House Gas (GHG) emmissions, including the development of a Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) which has been started.
develop a set of action steps that would reduce or eliminate carbon emissions on campus
make up an schedule to implement those action steps, by creating a time frame for the next five years
develop a financial plan to offset the cost and or raise the money to implement these actions on campus

Project's Supervisor and Contact: Mark Stimson, Campus Sustainability Coordinator (capnmark@lisco.com)
Number of students needed for the Project: A maximum of 3

Renewable Energy

dyepez — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:46:56 CST

Acore Internships
The American Council on Renewable Energy: The focus of the program is to assist young professionals along the path of personal professional development, gaining the knowledge, resources and experience they need to join the renewable energy industry, whether it be in industry and trade, finance or policy. Program participants engage in research and program assistance with projects tailored to their interests and ACORE's current programmatic needs. Interns build on their knowledge of the renewable energy industry prior experiences, delve into publications and reading lists provided to them by ACORE staff, and gain introductions to the renewable energy community, as well as potential employers though networking events and personal introductions.
Internships are based in their Washington, DC office. New applications are reviewed three times a year, roughly in line with the academic calendar. Interviews are conducted in the one to two months before each internship term begins. These terms are generally from September to December, January to May and June to August.

Deadlines for the ACORE internship program are as follows –
Spring 2009: November 15, 2008 Summer 2009: April 1, 2009 Fall 2009: August 1, 2009

Role of the Internship Provider

dyepez — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:06:00 CST

An internship provides a student with the opportunity to get hands-on experience in a particular field, and explore and become familiar with an industry that might interest him/her in the future. For the internship provider, it's an opportunity to gain an enthusiastic team member and someone with a fresh perspective of the organization and the way it operates.

A Faculty Advisor is assigned whenever an MUM student goes on an internship. In most cases, the Faculty Advisor will have contact with the On-site supervisor to ensure a pleasant and fulfilling experience, both for the student and the Internship Provider organization. Typically, this happens prior to the beginning of the internship (to set up internship goals and objectives) and after the student has completed the internship (for evaluation and grading purposes).

In one way or another, the student will be required to keep up a blog to reflect on the knowledge and experience obtained throughout the internship.

The On-site supervisor will serve as a mentor for the student and will play a key role in the student's performance. Maharishi University of Management requires that the Internship Provider offer the student a supportive yet challenging professional work environment, conducive to learning and career development.

For Credit Internships
For credit internships, require students to do a minimum of 25 hours per week and a maximum of 28. The student will be receiving academic credit for the experience and therefore, he or she is expected to complete the same amount of hours as if he/she was attending any other regular class. The schedule for a class at MUM goes as follows:

Monday through Friday:
10:00 am - 12:00pm
LUNCH
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Saturday
10:00 am - 12:00pm

Internship Process at MUM

dyepez — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:48:05 CST

Student defines or locates an internship option with the organization or mentor of his or her choice, then contacts the Internship Coordinator Diana Yepez (dyepez@mum.edu) to start the process and obtains the Internship Proposal Form. This form can also be downloaded by clicking here. If help is needed in the application process with resume, cover letter or interview preparation, student meets with Dr. Rachel Goodman, Director of Career Planning at rgoodman@mum.edu
Student fills out the First Part of the Internship Proposal Form.
Student contacts the Graduation Director (ext.4233, graduation@mum.edu) to confirm that the timing of the internship will not interfere with any academic requirements for graduation.
Student contacts a full-time faculty member who may be willing to act as the Faculty Advisor for the Internship. Then the student meets with that faculty member to confirm that the internship is commensurate with the student’s educational objectives, fits in with the schedule for that year and can count as credit.
Faculty sets academic learning objectives and deliverables with the student. Faculty Advisor and Department Head sign Internship Proposal Form.
Student gives filled out form back to the Internship Coordinator for the Internship and Academic Standards Committees to review and approve.
If approved, the student enrolls for the internship course designated by their Department.
MUM Faculty Advisor initiates a phone conversation with the on-site supervisor to establish contact and communication.
The student completes the internship and all assignments and evaluations as discussed and agreed upon beforehand, and receives a grade from the designated Academic Advisor.

To qualify for academic credit at Maharishi University of Management an Internship Proposal Form completed through Part B must be submitted to the Internship Coordinator at least two weeks prior to the beginning of the internship.

An Internship at MUM

dyepez — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:36:31 CST

An internship at MUM is an academic and practical work experience related to a student's major or minor that supplements what students are learning in their classes. A student will receive credit for the internship if the internship is approved as described in the procedures below.
A qualified on-site supervisor conducts the daily learning experience but the student is also supervised by a faculty advisor in their major or minor who sets the learning guidelines and deliverables and is in touch with the on-site supervisor to insure a meaningful experience for the student.

Faculty Advisor - Guidelines

dyepez — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:35:29 CDT

Role of the Faculty member serving as Academic Advisor during an Internship
The role of the Faculty Advisor is to oversee the student’s internship experience and to provide support and academic advice when and if needed.

Some of the responsibilities of the Faculty Advisor include:
· To provide academic direction and advise prior to and during the internship
· To maintain appropriate contact with the intern throughout the internship
· To help the intern integrate the Science of Creative Intelligence into the subject matter being studied
· To serve as a resource for the student intern

When judging whether to accept the responsibility of acting as Academic Advisor for an internship, the Faculty member must consider his/her expertise in the internship subject that the student is exploring and his/her time availability for providing the student with direction and feedback.
Once the Faculty member agrees to be the advisor for the internship and after the internship has been approved,

1. The student and the Faculty Advisor meet to discuss academic goals and objectives, and decide upon deliverables for the internship
2. The MUM Faculty Advisor speaks with the on-site supervisor to establish contact and communication and to agree upon their responsibilities during
the internship

Length of an Internship
Regarding the length of an internship, and specially if informing and/or advising a student, please refer to the University Catalogue for the number of credits allowed for internships at every specific major (it varies from major to major).
Also, the student should contact the Graduation Director to make sure that the length of the internship will not affect or interfere with the student’s academic requirements.

Grading an Internship
Upon successful completion of the internship, the designated MUM Faculty Advisor is responsible for submitting a grade for the student intern. Typically, the means for evaluating the student’s progress and performance during the internship include weekly reports, online blogs and a final summative essay. The Faculty Advisor grades the student based on these deliverables and the final evaluation report from the on-site supervisor.

Jessica Sparks- High Country Energy Solutions

dyepez — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:48:44 CDT

Jessica is currently finishing up her final report. It will be posted once it's submitted. Check back next week!

Institute for Responsible Technology - Internship Opportunities

Anonymous — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 11:56:36 CDT

Work to end the genetic engineering of the food supply with one of the world’s leading anti-GMO organizations—the Fairfield-based Institute for Responsible Technology (IRT).

Contact: Jeffrey Smith (jeffrey@seedsofdeception.com) 1.641.472.8338

Internship positions range from 1 block to 1 semester. Activities may include:
Writing
Filmmaking
Social networking
Fund raising
Technical support
Marketing
Graphic design
Animation
Outreach and networking nationwide
Hosting a film contest
Strategic planning
Community organizing

Also: Production Assistant Internship Opportunity

The Institute for Responsible Technology is seeking an intern who can be the Production Assistant for a feature length documentary on genetically modified foods.

The position is available immediately and can continue through October, or longer.

Responsibilities of Production Assistant

Production planning

Help create a production schedule
Book hotels, cars, flights
Prepare itinerary
Prepare budget
Identify and obtain permission from sites for shots, e.g. farms, stores, federal buildings in DC
Monitor production and propose changes to accommodate needs and opportunities

Liaison with interviewees

Obtain contact information for interviewees
Contact interviewees and set up appointments, confirm meetings, provide directions to director

On site support
o For shots within Iowa, there may be need for help on site. This is certainly true during a conference in Des Moines, October 10-13.

Assistant to Director and Producer
o General ongoing support to the director for tasks associated with the production

Research

Research incidence of disease in the US, Canada, and Europe, for the past 20-25 years, in order to identify any acceleration due to GMOs introduced in 1996 (rbGH in 1994)

The Institute for Responsible Technology’s Campaign for Healthier Eating in America mobilizes citizens, organizations, businesses, and the media, to achieve the tipping point of consumer rejection of genetically modified foods. The Institute educates people about the documented health risks of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and provides them with healthier non-GMO choices. The Institute also informs policy makers and the public around the world about the impacts of GMOs on health, environment, the economy, and agriculture, and the problems associated with current research, regulation, corporate practices, and reporting.

The following description of the Institute’s strategy may further inspire you to work on this urgent cause.

The Problem with GMOs
The current generation of genetically modified (GM) foods is one of the greatest threats to human health and the environment. Although there have been only 5 major GM crops (soy, corn, canola, cotton and sugar beets), their derivatives are found in over 70% of foods in grocery stores. Moreover, the biotech industry still hopes to engineer the remaining grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Documents made public from a lawsuit reveal that FDA scientists warned that GM foods might create toxins, allergies, and new diseases; they urged their superiors to require long-term safety tests. The FDA policy chief—the former attorney of biotech giant Monsanto, and later their VP—ignored these scientists and declared that no tests were needed. Evidence now shows that the FDA scientists’ concerns were justified. GM products have been linked to thousands of sick, sterile, and dead livestock, damage to virtually every system studied in lab animals, and thousands of toxic or allergic-type symptoms in humans. Basic assumptions in support of the technology have been disproved, and numerous ways in which genetically modified organisms (GMOs) create side effects have been identified.

In addition, GM crops concentrate corporate control of food, increase herbicide use without increasing average yields, endanger food security, are detrimental to sustainable and organic farming, and trap farmers in a cycle of debt and dependence. They shrink biodiversity, harm beneficial insects, damage soil bacteria, contaminate non-GM varieties, and work against solving the problem of hunger. Moreover, the self-propagating genetic pollution from GM crops might outlast the effects of global warming and nuclear waste.

The Solution: A Tipping Point Strategy Based on Success
The consumer revolt in Europe provides a successful model to stop the genetic engineering of the food supply in North America. After the European media reported the health risks of GM foods in early 1999, consumer concern reached a tipping point. Within a single week, virtually all major food manufacturers committed to remove GM ingredients from their European brands. This market rejection has kept GMOs out, in spite of official approvals by EU authorities. Corporations continue to sell GM foods in the US, where 60% of consumers mistakenly believe they have never eaten one in their lives.

The fact that GM food flourishes in the US on the basis of consumer ignorance leaves the agricultural biotech industry extremely vulnerable. If the health risks got onto the national radar screen, a European-style tipping point could be achieved. Since US food companies do not gain any advantage from using GM ingredients, even a small percentage of consumers changing brands based on GM content could accomplish it. We believe that 5% of shoppers—15 million people or 5.6 million households—is morethan sufficient to trigger an industry-wide cleanout.

The Institute, as part of a coalition, has already been successful in generating a tipping point against milk from cows injected with genetically engineered bovine growth hormone (rbGH). Most of the top dairy brands, including Wal-Mart, Starbucks, Kroger, Dannon, Yoplait, have committed to stop using rbGH in the past three years.

Health Concerns Motivate; Non-GMO Brands Provide Direction
The two tipping point scenarios presented above, GMOs in Europe and rbGH in the US, are based on the consumer concerns about the health dangers. IRT is uniquely qualified to frame these risks. Their Executive Director Jeffrey M. Smith is the leading spokesperson on GMO health dangers. He is the author of Seeds of Deception, the world’s bestselling book on GMOs, as well as Genetic Roulette: The Documented Health Risks of Genetically Engineered Foods. IRT has also packaged this compelling message into films, audio CDs, PowerPoint presentations, brochures, reports, websites, and articles.

Once people are motivated to avoid GMOs, they need clearly marked non-GMO brands. In fact, labeling GMOs alone might be sufficient, since 53% of Americans say they would avoid them if labeled. IRT jointly published a Non-GMO Shopping Guide, and intends to distribute the print and electronic versions in the tens of millions, through organizations, websites, list serves, magazines, medical practitioners, religious groups, conferences, school groups, and natural food stores.

Interns working with IRT will help them package information and/or conduct outreach, in order to achieve the tipping point.

Student Experiences on Internships

Anonymous — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 10:50:02 CDT

Spring 2009 Internships

Gina Wolfe Internship - Rural Renewable Energy Alliance - May 2009

Charles Machia Internship - Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage - May through August 2009

Bryan Holden - Simple S olar

Torrey Witherspoon Internship in Italy - Fall 2006

Frequently Asked Questions

dyepez — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 16:22:25 CDT

1. What is an Internship at MUM?
An internship at MUM is an academic and practical work experience related to a student's major or minor that supplements what students are learning in their classes. A student will receive credit for the internship if the internship is approved as described in the procedures below.
A qualified on-site supervisor conducts the daily learning experience but the student is also supervised by a faculty advisor in their major or minor who sets the learning guidelines and deliverables and is in touch with the on-site supervisor to insure a meaningful experience for the student.

2. Why should I do an Internship?

Internships give you exposure to real-world issues and allow you to apply those concepts and principles learned in your classes
Internships can help you discover if the career you are considering is right for you
Internships look great on your resume
Internships could turn into job offers
Internships are a good way to get an inside glimpse of an industry or a particular occupation

3. How do I find an internship?
We are continuously updating and adding to our list on the different internships available. Click here to go to our Internship list.
Also, there are many resources available online and you can do a search on your own and let our office know as soon as you find an organization that you are interested in.

4. Who is the Internship Coordinator at MUM?
The Internship Coordinator is Diana Yepez. Click here to contact her.

5. Are all internships paid?
An internship maybe either paid, unpaid or partially paid (in the form of a stipend or by providing room and board)

6. Is there a difference between a summer job and an internship?
Yes, they are different. A summer job doesn't necessarily relate to your major or your career, whereas an internship is closely related to your major, provides you with practical experience and enhances the knowledge you already have on your chosen field of study.

7. How many hours per week does an internship have to be to qualify for college credit?
It would have to cover the same hours as if you were taking a class at MUM and ideally follow the same routine.

8. What are the steps through the internship process?
Visit our Internship Process page to learn about the simple steps for an internship, from start to completion.

9. When is the best time to do an internship?
Doing an internship during your junior or senior year is what's typically recommended since you already have a few years of classes and knowledge that you can apply at the organization you would intern at. Most organizations are looking for interns who have completed at least their first year of studies. Also, at MUM it is best to schedule an internship sometime during the 6 weeks of summer as there aren't usually many courses offered at that time.

Characteristics of an Internship

dyepez — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 16:04:45 CDT

Characteristics of an Internship

· May be paid, unpaid or partially paid (in the form of a stipend or by providing the intern with room and board)
· May be arranged and submitted for approval as far as 6 months in advance
· May take place during the Academic Year or during the summer
· May be as short as one week and as long as 4 months depending on the major and each student’s specific academic requirements
· Take place primarily off campus

Benefits of doing an Internship

· It’s a good way to get an inside glimpse of an industry or a particular occupation
· It’s an opportunity to build self-confidence and increase communication skills
· Looks great on a resume
· Often turns into a job offer
· Offers potential work-related references
· Provides the student with networking opportunities

Week 12

Anonymous — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 20:22:06 CDT

Monday - Ripping lumber and making floor joists

Dan and I spent a good chunk of the morning ripping lumber to make it the correct width. (Ripping is cutting a piece of lumber lengthwise) It was necessary to rip a lot of the lumber that Dan had salvaged because some had varying widths. (Our older 2x6 lumber measured exactly 2 inches by 6 inches, but he newer lumber was not as wide.) We ended up cutting the older lumber to the slightly thinner width of the newer lumber. That afternoon we used some of the lumber for floor joists that connect between the beams that will form the platform for the second floor of the house. A DR visitor and I cut notches in the floor joists so that they would fit correctly. I spent some of the afternoon continuing to scrape off old paint from the window frame that will be used in the solar food dryer.

Table saw and ripped lumber (left) Floor joists installed between structural beams for 2nd floor (right)

Tuesday - Rain and lumber inventory

Storms made this a challenging workday. During the times that it wasn't raining I completed the inventory of the salvaged lumber on Ma'ikwe's site. The lumber that we received varied quite a bit. The big concern for the project is that we will have enough of a single size lumber to use as rafters. Most of the lumber is very long; most pieces range between 18 and 25 feet in length. The thickness of the lumber also ranges form 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches. During the inventory I found that enough of the lumber matched up in size that we had around 5 sizes of boards that each had 5 to 7 boards each. Several of these could also be ripped to make a lot of lumber that was a thinner width. The inventory was also useful because some of the 25+ foot boards needed to be saved for the long pieces of the roofing. In the afternoon Ma'ikwe gave a workshop on intentional communities to our visitor group. This was a great introduction to communities and gave useful information on different types of communities: spiritual, social experimentation, egalitarian,ecovillages, communes, etc.

Work party on Wednesday to lift posts into place and secure them to the framing.

Wednesday - Food dryer

I spent most of wednesday working on the solar food dryer. The design that I'm mimicking uses a sheet of corrugated metal on top of a frame with a screen for holding produce. A window and a layer of black metal are hinged to the frame and rest on top of the screens. Today I reinforced the frame by installing a center piece and by securing triange blocks in the corners to make the legs stable. Two pieces of cross bracing hold the legs together on each side. To secure the corrugated metal to the frame I used some roofing nails that I scavenged from the tool shed. With the metal layer tacked down I can hinge the window to the frame after I finish painting it.

Frame for food dryer with reinforced legs and frame (left) Frame with corrugated metal attached to top surface (right)

Thursday - Denailing and post raising

Aside from heavy rain this morning, I continued to work with the lumber inventory. Since some of the lumber will still be unusable until it is denailed, I spent some time during the afternoon on denailing. We also had a work party to get the next middle post into place on the west side of the foundation. When the post was in place we braced it and connected it to the north and south bents using 2x12 lumber.