My name is Nazeeya Chowdhury, I am a recent graduate of Virginia Tech, where I majored in Animal and Poultry Sciences and minored in Public Health. I am a huge animal lover and spend much of my time working at the vets office when I’m not in school! During my free time I enjoy dancing or just hanging out with my friends watching movies or at a cafe. I’m so excited to work with CAPAL this summer and working with NRCS so far has been incredible. I’m amazed to see how much work they put into to protect our natural resources.
Internship Placement: NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) Wisconsin
As a CAPAL scholar/intern, what does CAPAL mean to you?
CAPAL has been a source of guidance allowing me to explore career opportunities while also meeting many inspiring people.
What is an issue or topic within the AANHPI communities that you feel passionate about addressing?
One issue I am deeply passionate about addressing within the AANHPI community is the taboo surrounding mental health. Growing up, I struggled to express my own mental health challenges because the topic was often avoided and misunderstood. This cultural stigma prevents many from seeking the help they need, leading to prolonged suffering and isolation. By breaking this silence and fostering open conversations, we can create a supportive environment where mental health is recognized as an essential part of overall well-being.
What are your main responsibilities at your position? What are some of your big projects?
In my position with the NRCS, I explore various tasks by working at both the State and Field offices. I am learning all about monitoring soil conditions, crop growth, and environmental factors like fecal runoff during field walks. At the state office, I learn about the management of important programs such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), as well as the vital relationships NRCS maintains to support its conservation efforts.
How does this internship fit with your professional and career goals?
This internship aligns with my professional and career goals of helping animals by providing me with hands-on experience in environmental conservation and resource management. By learning how to monitor soil conditions, crop growth, and environmental factors, as well as understanding the management of programs like EQIP and CRP, I gain valuable skills and knowledge that are essential for promoting healthy ecosystems. These efforts ultimately contribute to creating better habitats and living conditions for wildlife, directly supporting my passion for animal welfare.
What does public service mean to you? What sparked your interest or desire to get involved with public service?
To me, public service means dedicating oneself to the betterment of the community and environment, working to ensure that resources are managed sustainably and equitably for the benefit of all. My interest in public service was sparked by a deep passion for animal welfare and environmental conservation. Seeing the direct connection between healthy ecosystems and the well-being of wildlife inspired me to explore a path where I could actively contribute to protecting habitats.
