Intern Costa Rica

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Richard Phillips

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Richard Phillips - Costa Rica Intern

Why did you apply for the internship with GVI?

I initially applied for the internship on the expedition with GVI Costa Rica because I had had the most amazing time of my life and wanted to carry on my experiences further. I felt that the work done on the expedition was of great importance and really was making a difference in the area. Therefore by staying longer I thought I would be able to make a greater and even more significant contribution by becoming an intern. During my time interning I was offered the possibility of staying on for another phase and I leapt at the chance. It was the opportunity for me to concrete in my mind that this was something that I wanted to do with my life.

How did you find it?

Interning was even more enjoyable than being an volunteer. Having more responsibility on surveys made them more rewarding and by participating in the training I could give more back. During my internship I was responsible for the resident bird project. This meant that I lead a large share of the bird surveys as well as others. Being given this amount of responsibility was incredibly rewarding as it showed that the other staff members had trust in my ability and knowledge. But above all else I continued to have a great time performing work that I loved doing in one of the most amazing environments.

Your reflection on what you got out of it?

I had an experience that I will never forget and also a new direction in life. When I left university I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do and so came to do something I had an interest in. By the time I left I knew that I wanted to work in conservation and the environment in some capacity. But I had also developed as a person. I became more sure of myself, leading surveys and taking training built up my people skills and my confidence. However, most of all I have memories that will last forever and also have met so many amazing people.

What do you hope to do in the future?

Since the internship I am now looking to find a career working for an environmental and conservation minded organisation. Unfortunately due to the recession it has been very hard to find a job to get myself on the right track just yet, but I am looking for a long term solution and so this may not come immediately. Currently I would like to participate in further work similar to that of GVIs and possibly in the future I may need to go back to study and complete a masters.

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