Life-changing experiences at home and abroad

Sarah Frances is an intern this summer helping to spread the word about the many UConn Extension programs that serve communities across Connecticut.

Frances ’27 (CAHNR) is studying natural resources and the environment with a specialization in fisheries and conservation. She and her supervisor, Morty Ortega, associate professor in the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, designed the internship together, leveraging Frances’ skills and interests to benefit UConn Extension.

Frances came to UConn with an associate degree in fine art photography and plans to become a nature photography photojournalist after graduation. During her internship, Frances is creating a series of video interviews with several UConn Extension professionals. The interviews highlight how UConn Extension works with at-risk communities across the state. UConn Extension is the university’s premier community engagement arm and is affiliated with the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR).

“We’re trying to get the word out about why Extension is so important. We want to spread the word about what Extension is and let people know about some of the programs they can access,” Frances says.

The video interviews highlight programs on urban forestry, 4-H, water resources, community sustainability and resilience, and more.

Frances will speak with Extension educators as well as community members who directly benefit from Extension’s work.

“The work we do is important,” says Frances. “It’s vital and helps a lot of people. The more people know about it, the better.”

Frances’ internship experience began early when she was able to complete mock interviews during a study trip to South Africa led by Ortega in May.

The three-week field ecology program allows students to get up close and learn more about animals such as lions, giraffes and elephants. Each day, students go on game drives and learn about the biodiversity of the savannah and how to track animals.

Frances describes the experience as “life-changing” as it allowed her to develop a new connection with nature.

“Working with the animals and being close to them is something you can never put into words,” says Frances. “You close your eyes for a second and when you open them again, you’re face to face with a Cape buffalo. It’s just surreal and very centering.”

Frances says she also formed lifelong bonds with the other students on the trip.

“Only 30 people know what it’s like to wake up and hear the roar of lions right next to your tent,” says Frances.

Frances says this internship experience is helping her prepare for a career in nature photojournalism, combining her love of art and science.

“I just want to be out there working with animals, taking photos and helping to make the world a better place as we deal with the climate crisis and environmental issues. I really want to make sure that no matter what happens to us, we leave a beautiful world for generations to come,” Frances says. “And if I can do that while taking photos and writing stories, I certainly will.”

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