Mary Raoul Fitzpatrick Internship Program

The Discover Life in America internship program is an incredible opportunity for two undergraduate students to immerse themselves in the natural history of the Smokies. We strive to offer a summer experience where our interns can explore diverse interests in science, art, education, and nonprofit operation.

DLIA is extremely lucky to have so many fantastic interns spending time with us in the Smokies.  The Mary Raoul Fitzpatrick Photography and Natural Science Internship, sponsored by our wonderful volunteer, Board member, ATBI photographer Kevin Fitzpatrick has attracted students from all over the country. 

DLIA owes a great debt of gratitude to Kevin Fitzpatrick for his hard work, support, and outspoken promotion of this project over the years.  Kevin has been a Board member for many years, as well as a volunteer photographer, and as mentioned above, a provider of an invaluable opportunity for young folks to become immersed in the ATBI through the Mary Raoul Fitzpatrick Scholarship in honor of his late wife.

Thanks so much Kevin!

Each spring, two interns are chosen - one in the field of biology and one as a photographer. The biology intern is expected to aid scientists doing fieldwork in the Park, as well as assist in maintaining our taxonomic database. Our photography intern should be prepared to take lots of pictures of the beautiful plants and wildlife in the Park, as well as documenting DLIA events and keeping our extensive image galleries organized. Each job offers unique opportunities both inside and outside the workplace, and there are many opportunities to step outside the focus of your specific responsibilities and pursue interdisciplinary interests.

Intern housing is usually available in a Park-owned cabin a mile south of Gatlinburg, TN. However, since this housing is popular and of limited capacity, it may be prudent to have alternative options investigated in the many housing developments outside of, but close to the Park. This, along with a small living stipend, varies from year to year.

Living within the unique ecosystem that is Smoky Mountains National Park gives interns the ability to experience wilderness 24 hours a day. We encourage taking days off to explore the large number of trails and activities in this amazing area.  Discover Life in America has been fortunate to have the help of several excellent student interns over the last few years, and we know this trend will continue in the years to come. Please visit the Internship Testimonial page to learn about what being an intern for DLIA is like!

If you are interested, please fill out our online application.  Send any questions to todd@dlia.org