LEAF--Jabaree Vaughn | The Nature Conservancy

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LEAF

Leaders in Environmental Action for the Future

Jabaree Vaughn, Student at Al Raby High School in Chicago

Al Raby High School student and LEAF intern Jabaree Vaughn. © Julia Bourque/TNC

The Nature Conservancy asked Jabaree a few questions about his upcoming LEAF internship. Here's what he had to say:

TNC:

What are you hoping to learn from your LEAF internship?

Jabaree:

I’m hoping to learn a lot more about the environment. I’ve never been to an outdoor space like Emiquon before, so I’m looking forward to seeing the different creatures, landscapes and learning more about the community.

TNC:

Are you nervous about anything?

Jabaree:

I hate bugs. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t. But, because I know there will be some, I’m coming prepared.

TNC:

What are you most excited about?

Jabaree:

I’m just excited about this experience alone. This is a once in a lifetime experience for me to go to a new area and branch out. I feel like this could be a time for change for me, and I hope to grow closer to the environment, grow as a person and grasp topics that I’m not familiar with now.

TNC:

What have you learned at Al Raby that you can apply during your internship?

Jabaree:

This is an environmental justice based school, so I’ve learned the basics of the environment and being in nature. Some do’s and don’ts, which plants are native and which aren’t.

TNC:

How do you see your LEAF internship helping your career?

Jabaree:

I want to go into psychology, communications, GIS or business management. So, I feel like this will help me with how to interact with people. I’m taking a big leap here, and I think having this experience will mold me into a better person. Not only a better steward for the environment, but a better person overall. There’s always room for progression.