Parks applied a similar effort in preparing to get a job as he did his coursework. He worked on his LinkedIn profile with Career Services to help build his resume. He even did mock interviews to make sure he was prepared for the professional setting. When the Career Expo rolled around, he found an internship with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MODNR).

“Missouri has a very unique and beautiful environment, and getting to see parts of the Ozark region during my internship with MODNR made me realize that I would love to start my career working with Missouri’s environment,” Parks said.

With Tetra Tech, Parks will be using his background knowledge to help with soil sampling and testing around the state. Tetra Tech is a global provider of consulting and engineering services, dedicated to solving water, environment, sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, and international development challenges for communities. Not only is this what he’s trained to do, but it’s also what he’s passionate about.

“I chose environmental science because the environment is something that all of us are affected by in ways many of us may not realize,” Parks said. “I wanted to work in a field that is quickly growing and is becoming more important as time goes on. I have had a passion for the environment, and I think it is important for people to interact with it and protect it.”

Parks wants to ensure that he has a part in environmental protection as he goes on in his career. For him, everything started when he decided to take his first internship. He thinks that’s the biggest piece of advice he could give other students.

“My biggest takeaway from SEMO is how much it has expanded my career opportunities,” said Parks. “With helping me build my resume and gain professional experience, I couldn’t be more grateful for my time at SEMO.”