Q: What are your plans for the summer?

A: Aside from working as a lifeguard at the Blue Ash swimming pool, I will be working at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a student volunteer and intern.

Q: What will you be doing there?

A: I’m working in the ecology branch. Mainly I will be working in the field but I will also get some lab experience as well. The group I am working with is focused on identifying DNA sequences in certain fish.

Q: What is the purpose of identifying the DNA?

A: They use this data to identify the best environments for these fish in rivers and streams. The ultimate goal is to protect our aquatic ecosystems, and it is a long and unfinished process, so they can use as much help as they can get.

Q: What fueled your interest for environmental science?

A: I took AP Environmental Science this year and really enjoyed it. Next year I plan to study and major in environmental science or public health at Wellesley College.

For more information on the EPA, visit EPA.gov.