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Austin Environmental Leaders

Internship Program

Austin Environmental Leaders is an initiative from Austin Youth River Watch designed to broaden our impact beyond High School graduation. The AEL program provides career readiness-skills to young adults aged 18+ in central Texas through intensive mentorship, professional development, and project-based learning.

Background

The AEL program was created after recognizing that many of our high school program alumni faced challenges in transitioning from high school to higher education or the workforce. We noticed that the support systems and resources available to them during high school often disappeared after graduation. To address this need, we launched the AEL program, specifically designed to continue supporting our alumni and other young adults from historically marginalized communities.

Purpose

The AEL program aims to provide career readiness and professional development opportunities to primarily BIPOC young adults, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to be independent adults and secure fulfilling jobs in the future..

Our program is uniquely tailored to meet the needs of BIPOC young adults, addressing the systemic barriers that have historically limited their access to high-wage jobs and leadership positions in STEM and other fields.

What Interns Can Expect

Personalized Mentorship

Weekly one-on-one meetings with a dedicated staff supervisor who provides guidance on setting and achieving personal and professional goals. Whether it’s financial literacy, applying for jobs, or developing other life skills, our mentors are here to support you every step of the way.

Professional Development Activities

Interns participate in resume building, mock interviews, professional communication practice, and networking events. We also help interns complete at least one informational interview and one job shadowing experience in their chosen field, offering real-world insights and valuable connections.

Project-Based Learning

Each intern has the opportunity to work on a semester-long project, allowing them to explore an area of interest while developing leadership skills and gaining relevant, marketable experience.

Financial Support

To ensure full participation, we pay interns $20 per hour,provide transportation support, meals on the job, and access to our weekly meal delivery service for their entire family.

Join Us

If you’re ready to be part of a program that values your unique experiences, supports your growth, and prepares you for future success, the Austin Environmental Leaders program is for you.

Interested in joining our program? Fill out the form below!

Application Closed Until August 2025

Meet Our Interns!

Estrella

Estrella

AEL Intern

Jasalyn

AEL Intern

Hello! My name is Jasalyn Franco. I am currently a freshman at UT Austin majoring in exercise science on the pre-med track. I have always had a love for science, and in high school I realized that I want to enter the medical field. I want to use my education to help people, and I am hoping that I am able to work in underserved communities eventually. I joined River Watch when I was a sophomore in high school in 2021 and I have been a part of the program ever since. It has always been a place I felt comfortable in and enjoyed, and I am beyond happy to continue working with the organization through this internship. A fun fact about me is that I am a vegetarian, but I am foodie all the way! In my free time I mainly watch cooking shows and I love trying (and making when I can) new foods.

Ja'Lexis

Ja'Lexis

AEL Intern

Araceli

AEL Intern

Hi! I’m Araceli. I’m a Freshman at Austin Community College where I’m pursuing a degree in Psychology! I chose to study psychology because growing up, the adults in my life always disregarded the importance of mental health, and because of that I want to help reduce prejudices surrounding the practice in minority communities. I’m excited to work with River Watch because I had the chance to be part of the program as a high school student. Now I get the opportunity to work alongside staff in helping educate the youth about the environment, and continue to build my own personal connection with nature. Some of my interests include reading, listening to commentary on a wide range of topics, and watching mystery movies.

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River Watch is a place where I am always loved and accepted. They are my family and I have no idea where I'd be without it.

UlisesEast Side Memorial High School, 2013
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When I found River Watch it reminded me of the saying, "home is where the heart is". With River Watch I am accepted, fun is never rejected and I am at home. Now my smile is 10 times wider and I couldn't be more happy.

NathanielEastside Memorial High School, 2013
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It was amazing to get out and make a positive contribution to the environment while still having fun.

AraceliTravis High School, 2019
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I love how this program makes people aware of the actions we as people make. It’s good to help out the environment because not many people do so.

OdalisTravis High School, 2019
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It is difficult to describe in words the importance of River Watch in my life. Most importantly, perhaps, has been a broadening of my horizons. I've come to appreciate the dirt beneath my feet and the water that cuts through the landscape.

MakaylaCrockett High School, 2014
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I love how this program makes people aware of the actions we as people make. It’s good to help out the environment because not many people do so.

OdalisTravis High School, 2019
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I love how this program makes people aware of the actions we as people make. It’s good to help out the environment because not many people do so.

OdalisTravis High School, 2019