Making an Impact

For Kathryn Puharic ’27, pursuing an internship was about finding a way to merge her two passions: helping others and protecting the environment. This summer, the environmental science major found the perfect fit at Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, where she worked as an education and aquarist intern. 

Kathryn says no two days were ever the same—some mornings were spent giving tours to summer camp groups and older visitors, while other times she collaborated with the education coordinator to design engaging programs on marine conservation. She also had the unforgettable experience of assisting staff in feeding and caring for the aquarium’s diverse marine life. 

Kathryn says the most rewarding moments of her experience were watching visitors’ faces light up during a program or tour. Whether she was explaining the dangers of plastic pollution or showing children the wonders of marine ecosystems, Kathryn felt she was making a difference. 

“Educating the public about marine conservation allowed me to feel like I was making an impact long after guests left the aquarium,” Kathryn says.

Kathryn’s connection to the aquarium runs deep—growing up near the Jersey Shore, she spent countless hours walking beaches, collecting shells, and wondering how small creatures fit into the broader marine ecosystem. Returning to the place that sparked her passion felt especially meaningful. Kathryn received an internship stipend, funded by a generous supporter, which helped alleviate travel costs associated with her internship, which was unpaid. She said without the stipend, she would not have had guaranteed transportation.