Summer Experiences in Sustainability
AppalachiaCorps
AppalachiaCorps is a student internship program through the UK Appalachian Center that pairs students with opportunities for experiential learning in eastern Kentucky and the greater Appalachian region. AppalachiaCorps serves a three-fold purpose:
- Providing students with work and learning opportunities.
- Strengthening UK’s land-grant commitment to the Appalachian region.
- Building capacity and networks of relationships among Appalachian organizations.
The AppalachiaCorps program is accepting student inquiries regarding Summer 2026 placements. Preference will be given to students who can make their own arrangements or contacts with host organizations as resources. Time is limited at the Appalachian Center to assist with those connections. Participation in the program is on a first come, first served basis. Students should submit their inquiry form, completed position agreement and learning contract as soon as possible during the Spring 2026 semester to ensure a placement.
Apply Here
Submit your inquiry form as soon as possible to ensure placement for Summer 2026.
Walk Across Kentucky Native Plants Internship
These interns will work closely with The Arboretum’s Curator to help expand and maintain The Arboretum’s 65-acre native plant collection and 15-acre remnant natural area (The Arboretum Woods). This is an excellent opportunity for student interns to learn about Kentucky’s natural heritage and native plants as well as learn ecological horticulture practices and proper arboriculture techniques. Learned skills will include plant identification, native plant propagation, invasive species management, pest and disease identification and management, and plant records management. Student interns will also be exposed to practical skills such as working safely with equipment and machinery that may include chainsaws, loaders, chippers, tractors, and mowers. Plants in this collection are grown from wild-collected seed and interns will have the opportunity to visit natural areas to collect seed and propagate plants in the greenhouse or nursery. Finally, student interns will develop leadership skills by helping to lead weekly volunteer groups in the management of the collection.
Apply Here
Arboretum Horticulture Internship
The Arboretum is currently seeking a student intern to work in the Horticultural Gardens and Displays. This is an excellent opportunity for students to learn about the diversity of plants that can be grown in the Bluegrass, and their proper care and management. Learned skills will include plant identification, pest and disease identification and management, and plant records management. Student interns will be exposed to practical skills such as working safely with equipment and machinery including chainsaws, loaders, chippers, and mowers. Finally, student interns will develop leadership skills by helping to lead weekly volunteer groups in the management of the collection.
