June 16, 2014

Intern Profile: Lily Clarke ’16

Meet Lily Clarke ’16, a biology major and intern at The Wilderness Society.
Lily Clarke ’16

Major: Biology
Hometown: Swan Valley, Montana

Can you tell us what you’re doing this summer? What are your basic duties as an intern?

This summer I am conducting fire ecology research with The Wilderness Society. Every week my coworker and I camp high up in the mountains, taking data on pollinator and wildflower succession patterns according to different fire regimes. In our off hours we hike, pick huckleberries, take a dip in the creek, and explore the wilderness to the fullest!

How has Lewis & Clark supported you in the process of finding, securing, and funding your internship?

The Wilderness Society wanted to rehire me after I worked with them last summer but had very limited funds for the project. If not for the Miller award, I wouldn’t have been able to work with them. Thank you, Miller award!

How do you see this internship leading to a career in your chosen field and aiding in your overall career development?

I am becoming more and more fascinated by fire ecology research, and this research opportunity is allowing me to pursue my passion and make connections that I may use for my future career pursuits. I am experiencing what it is like to do full-time fieldwork and data analysis, and this will allow me to make an educated decision on what I wish to pursue in the future. 

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about your experience thus far?

I love that I get to be in the wilderness all summer and get paid to do it. I am learning about local Montana ecology and get to work with a team of powerful women. Thank you, Lewis & Clark!

The purpose of the Miller Summer Internship Award is to underwrite or supplement expenses of students at Lewis & Clark College who are engaged in scientific research internships in the mathematical and natural sciences. This opportunity is made possible by a generous grant from the Miller Foundation. 

Career Development Biology Department