Biology Major Neill Baker of Abingdon, Maryland, is Named Volunteer of the Month after Completing Internship at Irvine Nature Center.

2015 Aug 17

Stevenson University senior biology major Neill Baker has been named Volunteer of the Month by Irvine Nature Center. Baker completed his 150-hour internship at the non-profit organization in Owings Mills, which focuses on environmental studies and natural science programs for the child and adult community. Irvine Nature Center is known for providing quality environmental education for individuals of all ages since their start in 1975. The Nature Center is located in the Caves Valley region of Baltimore County and provides programs for the public and Baltimore-area schools, hosting multiple events each year. Baker's responsibilities during his internship included caring for the many animals on-site, creating a brand new trail, and serving as a counselor for three different Irvine-run summer camps.

"Neill has been a fantastic intern. He was so eager to help with any kind of project, and went above and beyond the hours that he needed," said Katie Roof, Manager of School and Urban Education Programs. Roof also said of Baker: "Although Neill left us in the beginning of August, every time someone uses this amazing new trail we will think of him,"

Baker plans to apply for the Peace Corps next fall and believes his experience at Irvine will greatly benefit his resume. He also stated that his internship allowed him to thrive as a mentor to the youths. "I had a wonderful time. It was really great to meet new personalities and be in an atmosphere where I am a role model to kids, teaching them about the environment," Baker said. "It was very rewarding to be able to use my biology background to explain different concepts and provide some insight into elements of nature that many of these kids were learning about for the very first time."

Congratulations Neill!