Charles Sturt University (CSU) environmental science student Ms Rachel Smith returns to her Queensland home this week after being the first Australian to undertake an internship at the US Embassy in Canberra.

 

Ms Smith was offered the three-week internship as part of the Embassy’s Canberra Greening Initiative (CGI) program which aims to promote environmentally sustainable practices within the Embassy, its staff and the wider ACT community.

 

Ms Smith said, “A primary focus of my internship has been forming a relationship between the US Embassy in Canberra, Charles Sturt University and the Green Steps program, with the aim of establishing an ongoing CGI internship scheme.

 

“Another major focus has been to undertake an outreach campaign and promote CGI and its achievements to the wider community. I have assisted in the development of a Sustainable Procurement Guide for US Government owned residential properties, and drafted a review of waste management initiatives at the Embassy.

 

“I have also had the privilege of meeting US Ambassador to Australia Jeffery Bleich.”

 

US Embassy CGI Co-Chair Mr Bernt Johnson, said, “Rachel had an extraordinarily productive internship. In three short weeks she made a material impact on our greening efforts and produced a number of first-rate papers that will have an enduring legacy. Her professionalism and energy reflect very highly on her, Charles Sturt University, and the Green Steps program.”

 

Ms Smith said, “I feel privileged to have secured this internship and I am proud to say I was the first Australian intern at the US Embassy Canberra, as well as the first intern for the Canberra Greening Initiative program.

 

“It has been a once in a lifetime opportunity and it is a significant personal achievement I am proud of.”

 

Ms Smith, from Bundaberg, has also praised the support offered by CSU Green, an office formed as part of CSU’s commitment to sustainability.   

 

“From my application until the commencement of my internship, CSU Green kept in regular contact to ensure the process was proceeding smoothly.

 

“During my internship, CSU Green’s Nicola Smith has provided consistent support. It allowed me to successfully undertake a three-week internship away from home.

 

“I encourage all students to consider this internship with the US Embassy. It’s an excellent opportunity to contribute to greening initiatives and expand your skill set.”

 

Ms Smith has finished a Bachelor of Environmental Science by distance education through the School of Environmental Sciences at CSU. She is due to graduate in December.

 

Ms Smith is forging ahead with her education, commencing postgraduate studies in environmental management at Bond University.

 

“My long-term goal is to gain employment as a sustainability consultant or similar and to work with vocational education providers to deliver sustainability training to students.”