Practical tools for stronger conservation internships

These free resources from Conservation Collaborative support internship program leaders, host supervisors, and interns at each stage of the experience. Use them individually or as a complete support sequence.

Onboarding

Guide to Intern Onboarding

Guidance on setting expectations, introducing the workplace, building connections, and checking understanding.

For: Hosts and program staff
[Download PDF]

Intern Onboarding Checklist

A practical checklist for preparing before the intern arrives and guiding the first day and first week.

For: Hosts and program staff
[Download PDF]

Weekly Support

Guide to Using the Weekly Intern Check-In Form

Tips for introducing the form, reviewing responses, and following up effectively.

For: Hosts and program staff
[Download PDF]

Weekly Intern Check-In Form

A brief form for tracking work, learning, challenges, and support needs.

For: Interns and supervisors
[Download PDF]

Mid-Internship Check-In

Mid-Internship Check-In Meeting Guide

A guide for reviewing progress, learning, feedback, support, and priorities for the remaining weeks.

For: Hosts and program staff
[Download PDF]

Intern Preparation Checklist

A short reflection to help interns prepare for the midpoint conversation.

For: Interns
[Download PDF]

Supervisor Meeting Checklist

A practical checklist for preparing, leading the conversation, and recording next steps.

For: Host supervisors
[Download PDF]

Closing Out the Internship

Guide to Closing Out Internships

Guidance on reflection, feedback, work handoff, references, recognition, and final administrative steps.

For: Hosts and program staff
[Download PDF]

Internship Closeout Checklist for Hosts

A flexible checklist for planning and completing the final days.

For: Hosts and program staff
[Download PDF]

End-of-Internship Feedback for Hosts

A form interns can use to share what worked well and what could improve.

For: Interns
[Download PDF]

End-of-Internship Reflection

A personal workbook for recording accomplishments, skills, learning, contacts, and future goals.

For: Interns
[Download PDF]

Suggested sequence

Beginning: Onboarding resources
Throughout: Weekly check-in resources
Midpoint: Mid-internship resources
Final weeks: Closeout resources

The materials may be adapted to fit your program, organization, and internship structure.