Our Blog

Intern Introduction: Gianna Wilson

06/30/202606/30/2026

Topic: Interns, Staff

My name is Gianna Wilson, and I am one of the 2026 River Connection Interns at Wild Rivers Conservancy this summer!

How I got here

My passion for environmental science and education started at the age of 12, after a family road trip to Grand Canyon National Park. After what felt like a year-long road trip from California to Ohio and back, we decided to end our trip on the rim of the canyon. I remember the first time I saw the Grand Canyon; I was speechless. My young brain could not comprehend how incredible it was; I also could not comprehend why people would not want to protect these beautiful landscapes we are so lucky to have. From then on, I decided I was going to protect these incredible natural spaces and share their beauty with as many people as I can.

Throughout high school, I knew I had this passion, but I did not know where I wanted to take it. For all I knew, I just wanted to hike and camp for the rest of my life. Before my epiphany, I was set on becoming a teacher, and this plan was still lingering in my mind. I took a class that placed me at a local elementary school, learning the basics of curriculum writing and classroom management. From this experience, I learned that I loved working with students, but I hated being stuck inside a classroom for 9 hours a day. Fast forward to college applications: I applied everywhere as an education major; I loved my students, but I also loved the natural world. At the last minute, I changed my applications to an environmental science major and worried that I made the biggest mistake possible. Thankfully, looking back, I think it was the best decision I could have made for myself.

I decided on a small school in New Hampshire, Franklin Pierce University. After growing up in California, I had never been to New Hampshire before. After my first visit to FPU, I had the same feeling I did at the Grand Canyon: “Why are we not doing more to protect this beautiful place?” I quickly fell in love with New England and found myself getting involved in local conservation efforts. I met so many incredible environmentalists and conservationists who listened to my goals, and every single one encouraged me to keep pursuing my dreams, and thanks to them, I am in Wisconsin today.

My summer internship goals

I have had the honor to intern and volunteer with numerous incredible organizations with the same goal: protection and education. I am thrilled to continue this effort this summer with Wild Rivers Conservancy. This summer as a River Connections intern, I will assist with the Rivers Are Alive environmental education programs at schools, summer camps, parks, and other locations throughout the watershed. I will also be supporting public recreation programs, such as kayaking, hiking, and fishing. My hope for this summer is to help share the beauty and importance of protecting the St. Croix and Namekogan rivers to a wide range of people.

I believe that we will not be able to effectively protect an area if the public is not educated on its importance. This is why I believe that environmental education is so important for all backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. The health of the watershed impacts all life around it, from the smallest mussel in the river to the families living on its banks. Personally, I hope to grow as an educator and a student this summer. I am thrilled to learn from the staff at the Conservancy and from my fellow interns this summer. But most importantly, I hope that I share my love for the river with as many people as I can.