By Aadi Mullan, Intern
This summer, I worked at the Keystone Foundation as an inaugural student for the Youth Internship Program. Being passionate about environmental sciences and conservation, I was extremely excited as I settled into my room at Keystone’s campus in Kotagiri. Not only was I blown away by the incredible experiences I went through, but I also learned so much about conservation and the importance of Keystones’ mission.
As part of my program and internship, I worked and studied the area of Samaigudal. To begin, I learned about the history of the area and the environmental impacts colonization had on the people. Colonization had brought many invasive species to the Nilgiri Biosphere, and these plants harmed the native species in the area. Understanding this background information was crucial for one of my first projects– a plant profiling. Through reading books and reports on the wildlife in the Samaigudal area, I was able to compile a list of many of the species found in the area, which will help further Keystone’s understanding of the area.
The highlight of my internship was actually going to the field in Samaigudal. There, I got to gain first-hand insight into the work Keystone does there. I was able to learn so much about the natural landscape, and also assist locals in planting native species. The local workers welcomed me warmly into their work, and I fell in love with the work they were doing and was amazed as they placed each new plant into the ground. Not only was I able to do physical and hands-on work in the area, but I also learned about Keystone’s progress in the area, which was crucial for my final assignment.
As my final project, I worked on a presentation reflecting on Keystone’s work in Samaigudal using my hands-on experience and the knowledge I learned through my research. This culmination allowed me to showcase everything that I learned throughout my time in the Nilgiris, and I was extremely proud of how it turned out.
Reflecting on my time at Keystone, I had the most wonderful time. Not only did I learn so much about topics that excite me, but I was able to see Keystone’s importance and work with my own eyes. I left with so much appreciation for every member of the Keystone team for helping guide me through this journey. I was able to explore one of the world’s most stunning landscapes and work on preserving its beauty. I cannot wait to see Keystone continue its great work, and hope to collaborate with them again in the near future.
