Fostering Conservation Changemakers and Careers

Two of the world’s most recognized environmental organizations, the National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy, have joined forces to offer diverse young people from across the globe a leadership experience to equip them with the knowledge, tools and relationships to seek solutions and take action for nature.
student image and graph screen

Spring 2024: Closed

  • Topic: Freshwater & Community Conservation

Summer 2024: Applications Open

  • June 3, 2024 - July 28, 2024: apply here
  • Applications close on May 6

Fall 2024: Closed

  • Topic: TBD
  • Applications open in June 2024

Program Overview

Meet scientists, experts and explorers who are working for nature—and find your place in caring for the planet. Participants join live online workshops and networking sessions, explore curated digital content, and create a community-based conservation project to practice research, storytelling and presentation skills. We are committed to creating cohorts of young people from diverse backgrounds, beliefs and cultures so that participants can develop a network of peers and professionals to support their journey to becoming an informed changemaker for nature.

Qualifications

We are seeking young people ages 18-25 from around the globe interested in learning about introductory conservation approaches and exploring a career in conservation. 

No prior work experience or coursework in conservation or environmental topics is required.
Application Process

After sending in your application, we'll reach out if we think you're a good fit. You'll send in a "Get to Know You" video and then participate in a live interview.

Week 1: Onboarding

During the first week of the program, you'll be setting goals for what you want to achieve in the upcoming weeks and familiarizing yourself with the industry, our platform, and your cohort.

Weeks 2-5: Research & Analysis

During the regular programming of the Externship, you will receive training and complete projects through our student platform. These exciting weeks are filled with weekly meetings, company meetings, student-led workshops, and virtual events like speaker series and networking sessions.

Present to Host Company

Top students will be selected to present their projects and findings to company leads and other senior leadership.

Here's how a Remote Externship works

We partner with leading brands to curate six to eight week programs designed for student success. By dedicating 10 hours a week, you’ll receive training, work on real problems, and network with professionals — all from the comfort of your own home.

View All Externships
Testimonials

Meet the Externs

Grace and Samuel
National geographic society & The nature conservancy ExternS

"This group really showed how important it is for companies and teams in professional networks to have a diverse group of people work together, focused on the same goal and sharing similar passions."

Ricardo Bowen
National geographic society & The nature conservancy Extern

"I appreciated having the resources that I would not have otherwise known of. It illuminated my career path."

Jessica Bonifacio
National geographic society & The nature conservancy Extern

"I got to hear stories and experiences outside my own and found a glimmer of hope in that there are enthusiasts to tirelessly give solutions to problems plaguing our communities."

Negash Asayehegn Zeray
National geographic society & The nature conservancy Extern

“In just eight weeks, I feel like I have improved very much in many different areas and have learned a ton! The opportunity to speak with people in the marine conservation field was also something I appreciated very much.”

Myrto Anastasiou
National geographic society & The nature conservancy Extern

"The peer group is so incredible and inspiring. Every single person is so knowledgeable and brings something completely unique to the table and learning from them has been so great."

Vedaansh Uberoi
National geographic society & The nature conservancy Extern
About

The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organization that uses the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Since 1888, National Geographic Society has pushed the boundaries of exploration, investing in bold people and transformative ideas, providing more than 15,000 grants for work across all seven continents, reaching 3 million students each year through education offerings, and engaging audiences around the globe through signature experiences, stories and content.

The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental nonprofit working to create a world where people and nature can thrive. The Nature Conservancy works to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends by boldly addressing the biodiversity and climate crises. By maximizing the ability to affect change between now and 2030, The Nature Conservancy believes that we can shape a brighter future for people and our planet.

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