My name is Celeste Sullivan and I’m so excited to be Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership’s new intern.
In 2018, I graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. Going to school and working as a nanny full-time pushed me to grow in my level of responsibility and taught me a lot about working collaboratively. Of course, my favorite classes in school focused on the environment, such as People, Science, and the Environment and Environmental Issues and Ethics. These courses gave me an understanding of the historical development of the environmental movement, interactions between humans and natural ecosystems, and more specifically the role of growing population and associated pressures on natural resources. It was also an opportunity to be introspective about my personal choices and their environmental impact, awakening me to a new way of thinking.
Nature and the natural world seemed foreign to me growing up in Philadelphia, which is largely developed without much green space, let alone expansive forests. This changed when I was in grade school and I was lucky enough to attend a field trip to Churchville Nature Center in Northampton Township. It was during this trip that the wonder of the natural world washed over me as instructors discussed animals, insects, and our responsibility to take care of it all. That experience was the foundation that my fascination with nature and teaching others would be built upon.
While visiting Churchville Nature Center again, I was lucky enough to run into Stommy Blauth, the volunteer coordinator for the butterfly house. She expressed to me that she was searching for volunteers to help with projects and educate the community, and I jumped at the opportunity! My time there was eye-opening because I learned so much about butterflies, plants, and the ecosystem.
In an effort to continue to gain first-hand experience and do the most good that I can for the environment, I applied to Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership’s internship. When I stumbled upon their website, I was thrilled to see all the work they do to spread the word about issues facing the watershed and the way they engage the community to improve local water sources. Improving the health of our watershed is an issue that I’m passionate about because water touches our lives in so many ways everyday.
I’m ready to learn as much as I can and get my hands dirty to accelerate change in my community of Philadelphia. There are many challenges that our urban watershed faces, but when we work together, we can make a difference!
Learn how to intern with TTF here.
